Before you make the big decision to go under the knife for carpal tunnel surgery, make sure you’ve considered these three key areas. Sometimes a few strategic changes can relieve carpal tunnel symptoms without the need for surgery.
Ergonomics at Work Start by assessing your workspace setup. Are your wrists in a neutral position, or are they constantly bent while you type or use a mouse? Adjusting your chair height, adding a supportive wrist pad, or using an ergonomic keyboard can take pressure off the median nerve—the nerve affected by carpal tunnel syndrome.
Stretching and Strengthening Gentle stretching for the wrists and forearms, along with strengthening exercises, can be powerful tools in reducing carpal tunnel pain. Try wrist flexor and extensor stretches (or even nerve gliding exercises) for a few minutes daily. Strengthening the muscles around your wrist can balance the area and ease strain on the carpal tunnel, improving blood flow and reducing pain.
Manual Therapy and Adjustments Chiropractic care and manual therapy can be especially effective for carpal tunnel relief. Adjustments to the wrist can improve the shape and function of the carpal tunnel, creating more space for nerves to move freely. This can decrease pressure on the median nerve, reducing inflammation and easing symptoms.
By improving the alignment and shape of the carpal tunnel itself, adjustments help the nerve glide more smoothly through the wrist, minimizing irritation. Many people experience a notable decrease in pain, tingling, and numbness with this non-invasive approach.
Carpal tunnel surgery may be necessary for some, but addressing these factors first might save you from an operation and provide lasting relief!
