The increased reliance on technology and devices has led to countless unforeseen health problems in the last decade. The average person will spend approximately 3 hours daily on their mobile device. Depending on their career, they might also spend an entire 8-hour shift using a computer and then continue to use one for entertainment at home. While eye strain may be the first thing you think of, wrist pain has increased drastically.
Wrist pain is a common yet inevitable side effect for many professions, including hairstylists, writers, mechanics, and athletes. Although, anyone that relies heavily on their wrists to complete daily tasks is at risk of developing severe wrist pain. Any time wrist pain starts to appear, Hunt Spinal Care likes to encourage our patients to reach out immediately to schedule an evaluation and treatment before the problem has a chance to get worse.
Common Causes of Wrist Pain
When wrist pain occurs, most people will assume that they have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – particularly when the symptoms are recurring. While this is a possibility, many other conditions could be directly causing the wrist pain, including minor strains or issues within the soft tissue. For this reason, we encourage our patients to seek a medical diagnosis before starting any treatments to ensure that relief is sustained long-term and temporary therapies are not prioritized.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, sometimes called CTS (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome), occurs as a side effect of median nerve compression that runs down the forearm, through the wrist, and into the hand. Often the pressure that this compression causes will result in numbness or tingling on the underside of the hand. However, pain may also extend to the ring finger or thumb, depending on how severe the condition is. If there is a comorbidity of Diabetes or Arthritis, CTS symptoms may be aggravated.
Tendonitis
When the soft tissue in the wrist gets inflamed, it will often lead to the development of Tendonitis. Repetitive motions and overuse can quickly overuse tendons and lead to tiny tears that cause inflammation. Repetitive movements and overuse will irritate these tendons and cause small tears that make inflammation worse. While Tendonitis symptoms are not typical for each person, patients may experience wrist pain, numbness, muscle weakness, or range of motion issues.
How Can a Tulsa Chiropractor Treat Wrist Pain?
Unlike many other Tulsa Chiropractors, Hunt Spinal Care focuses on gentle adjustments designed to restore proper nervous system function. Wrist pain may often be caused by pre-existing pain in the shoulders, neck, or elbow. Our doctors work to locate the source of the pain and then provide the best treatment option and lifestyle adjustment advice to ensure long-term relief and optimal recovery.
Your chiropractor may also suggest other treatment options when creating your wrist pain care plan, including ice treatments, bracing, myofascial release, rest, or ongoing physical therapy. While there is no way to prevent wrist pain from occurring, the following preventative measures may help limit the level the condition can reach:
- Taking brief breaks each hour to rest the wrist
- Adopting a neutral grip position that promotes a straight hand and wrist
- Stretching the hands each hour by making a fist, rolling the wrist, or doing finger extensions
- Alleviating potential strain by sitting straight with squared shoulders
- Maintaining a straight wrist that floats above the keyboard when typing
Why Choose Hunt Spinal Care?
Wrist pain can be debilitating, but that does not mean you have to live with the pain. If you are experiencing wrist pain, seek professional treatment. Regardless of the source of your pain, we will work with you to determine the right treatment plan for your needs. For more information on wrist pain or to schedule an appointment, contact us or give us a call at (918) 459-0333 today.
