Technology has made our lives more convenient. However, it also has brought its own share of problems because people are not as active as they used to be a few decades ago. Today, people spend a lot of time in front of computers and handheld devices at home and work. This means they are constantly using their hands, exerting stress on their wrist. This is one of the reasons why carpal tunnel syndrome has become a common health problem.
If you are diagnosed with it, don’t ignore it. You should immediately consult a chiropractor, as untreated carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent and irreversible nerve damage.
Risk Factors
If you know the risk factors for carpal tunnel syndrome, you will be able to catch the symptoms early and get treated. Here are some risk factors that you should be aware of. Not all of them are associated with work, though.
Age and Gender: You are at higher risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome if:
- You are an older adult
- You are a woman, as women are three times more likely to develop this condition than men
- You are pregnant, have just delivered a baby or in menopause
Health Conditions: There are certain health conditions that can increase the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. These include diabetes, kidney failure, obesity, and thyroid problems.
Occupation: As mentioned earlier, there are some occupations that cause the compression of the nerve that runs along the carpal bones. Occupations that require repetitive movement of the hands and wrists are at a high risk of developing this condition. These include secretaries, maids, administrative assistants, movers, laborers, truck drivers, housekeeping staff, welders, accountants, and other occupations that require constant movement of the wrists and hands.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If you suffer from the following symptoms, make sure you visit a chiropractor without delay.
- Pain, tingling sensation and/or numbness in the wrist, thumb, fingers, and hands
- Usually, you will experience the pain in the night
- Muscle spasms or weakness in the hands
- Burning or pins and needles sensation in the hands
- You get an urge to shake your hands and fingers to ease symptoms
You can easily get relief from the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and prevent further damage through chiropractic care. In the early stages, the condition is reversible and the chiropractor will customize the treatment to suit your needs. However, you should choose your chiropractor with care.
