Office Work: Posture, and Preventing Carpal Tunnel

Chiropractic works great for neck and back problems but is highly effective for the entire body. Carpal tunnel syndrome or CTS is becoming a widespread health issue with many working on computers, devices, phones, etc. Chiropractic is perfect for treating CTS. It relieves pain, loosens/stretches the ligaments, and promotes healing without meds.

Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel is diagnosed as a repetitive stress injury. This is a condition that affects the hands and wrists. The most common symptoms include:

• Tingling
• Numbness
• Weakness in the middle, index, and thumb
• Pain in the wrist/hand
• Gets worse at night

It is found in:

• Hairdressers
• Office workers – typing, writing, filing, etc.
• Mechanics
• Cashiers
• Those who perform repetitive hand motions throughout the day

It is estimated that around 3% of adults will deal with CTS at some time in their lives. Around 50 percent of workplace injuries are attributed to CTS. Research has shown that job occupation plays a large role in development.

The carpal tunnel lies on the front side of the wrist. Here is where the blood vessels, nerves, and tendons necessary for the hand to move and work reside. The carpal tunnel can become inflamed, damaged, or strained with added pressure on the area compressing the arteries and nerves. This is when CTS develops. It starts slowly, with symptoms gradually worsening as the condition progresses.

How chiropractic helps

There are 3 primary ways that chiropractors treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Manual Adjustment of the:

• Upper spine
• Arm
• Wrist

If the spine is out of alignment, it could contribute to and exacerbate the carpal tunnel. Chiropractic utilizes spinal manipulation to realign the spine to its correct position. These adjustments are performed by hand, but special devices, instruments, tools, rollers, etc., could be used during the treatments. A chiropractor will make adjustments to the arm and wrist, as well.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses low-energy sound or high-energy sound. The sound waves are highly focused and penetrate the body’s tissue very deeply. These waves are quite effective in reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and relaxing the muscles. It could be used as a stand-alone treatment or along with chiropractic treatment.

Wrist Supports

Wrist supports are used to keep the wrist properly aligned with the rest of the arm to reduce pressure and compression. It can be used as a preventative measure against carpal tunnel. A chiropractor could go with this option if the individual does repetitive work that could contribute to the condition.

This is usually done in conjunction with regular chiropractic care. When treating carpal tunnel, a chiropractor could suggest certain therapeutic exercises and a dietary change to help promote optimal wellness. This is to help the individual get the most benefits from the treatment and to help prevent the condition from worsening, as well as other conditions.

Posture

Proper posture is essential for optimal health and well-being can help avoid age-related conditions, and allows the organs to operate properly and efficiently. Posture can be affected in different ways. Sustaining an injury is when the body compensates by listing to one side or hunching over to relieve the pain.

Another reason is slouching. Those of us that just don’t stand and sit up straight through bad habits, lack of exercise, improper diet, medication, and the list goes on and on. Whatever the reason, poor posture will gradually lead to:

• Back pain
• Headaches
• Increased risk of injury
• Decreased flexibility
• Decreased mobility

It can cause the body to age quicker. However, in most cases, even those with extremely poor posture can find help and return to a high quality of life. Chiropractic has been shown to help many regain a straight, healthy posture.

Postural Conditions

There are postural conditions that chiropractic is beneficial in alleviating, including:

• Pelvic unleveling
• Damage to the low back, mid-back, and neck
• Forward head posture – usually associated with mobile devices
• Kyphosis
• Scoliosis

Treatment

A chiropractor will:

• Discuss the problem/s you are experiencing
• Listen to the complaints
• Find out when the problem started
• Go through events or work that could have contributed to the problem
• Thoroughly evaluate the medical history
• Observe the way you sit, walk, bend, and move around

A chiropractor will request x-rays and assess the alignment of the spine. If necessary, a neurological or orthopedic test could be done to ensure that no underlying condition or injury is causing the problem.

They will ask you to stand straight and possibly take measurements to determine if there is any visible deviation from the optimum posture. They will then ask you to move and bend while they test the range of motion, mobility, flexibility, muscle strength, and length.

Posture Plan

Once the assessments are complete, the chiropractor will discuss the best treatment options. They will walk you through the adjustments that will be performed along with other therapies they might recommend. The best course of action to relieve any pain will be discussed, as well as getting your spine into proper alignment and improving posture. They will also talk to you about stretching exercises and things to do at home. They could also discuss:

• Sleep positions
• Diet
• Work area adjustments
• Exercise
• Weight loss

Chiropractic focuses on whole-body treatment. This means addressing lifestyle changes and getting the individual into optimal shape. Basic chiropractic adjustments can help improve posture within a few sessions.

After the body is in alignment, you will feel more energetic, healthier, and happier. The body is an intricate machine, and when one part is out of order, it begins to affect all the other parts. Chiropractic can improve overall health and wellness. We want your body to function more effectively and efficiently and feel better.

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