Carpal tunnel syndrome has long been associated with using a computer mouse and keyboard. Since 2020, it has become more prevalent, as people started working from home, without having an ergonomic desk for their laptop. However, chiropractors often treat people with carpal tunnel syndrome who use the computer only occasionally. After years of analyzing patient cases, it is clear that this condition can be caused by various other circumstances.
A Quick Explanation of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The wrist is a very complex joint, with many tiny bones and a small tunnel passing in the middle. This is the carpal tunnel, the channel through which the median nerve passes. This is the nerve that controls all the movements of your hand, from carrying a bag of groceries, to very fine movements, such as painting or stitching decorative sequins on a blouse.
When the median nerve is subject to pressure, it stops working properly. This is the simple definition of carpal tunnel syndrome. Its symptoms can range from tingling and numbness in the fingers to weakness in the hand and the inability to grasp and hold objects.
What Are the Less Known Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Let us no focus on the key topic of this article. These are the lesser known causes of carpal tunnel syndrome. If you have the symptoms without using a computer on a daily basis, one of these issues may be the underlying cause:
1. Genetics
After decoding the human genome, specialists have managed to understand why some health conditions are recurring in related individuals. Some genes carry the signals that trigger various diseases and debilitating conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome.
In this particular case, the patient’s carpal tunnel is narrower than it should be. This means that even slight pressure or effort may put pressure on the median nerve.
2. Preexisting Conditions
Various inflammatory conditions may trigger carpal tunnel syndrome. One of the most common examples is rheumatoid arthritis. Other diseases, such as diabetes or thyroid dysfunction may also predispose people to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.
3. Physical Trauma
If you suffered from a broken or sprained wrist, you may be at risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. The risk is higher in case of sprains left to heal by themselves. In many cases, the joint remains misaligned.
This is why it is important to see a chiropractor after sprains and as part of the recovery process after a fracture. Chiropractic can restore the injured joint to its natural position, preventing further injuries and inflammatory conditions.
4. Repeated Overextension of the Wrist
The human wrist has a very wide range of movement. However, certain activities, such as playing the piano or doing gymnastics, force the wrist to extend beyond its normal range. Over time, this type of overuse may cause carpal tunnel syndrome.
5. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the body retains water and this can lead to inflammation and extra pressure on various nerves, including the median nerve that passes through the carpal tunnel. For this reason, many pregnant women experience symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, even though they are careful not to overexert themselves.
Chiropractic Can Help Patients
A chiropractor can resolve carpal tunnel syndrome in a safe, natural and non-invasive manner. Even pregnant women can try this form of therapy, with absolutely no risk for themselves or their unborn baby.
Left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent damage of the median nerve and reduce your ability to use your hand. As soon as you experience the symptoms, go to our online directory, find a chiropractor near you and book your first appointment!
