Understanding Wrist Pain: Causes and Solutions
It seems like almost everyone experiences sore wrists these days.
We understand how frustrating it is when the pain keeps you from doing simple things like pouring your coffee or getting into your favourite yoga pose.
Maybe you’ve been told it’s carpal tunnel syndrome but you’re not convinced.
If you’ve been wondering whether your wrist pain is carpal tunnel, tendonitis, or something else entirely, keep reading for clarity and relief.
Wrist pain is something we see very regularly and we’ve helped thousands of patients find lasting relief very quickly.
At the end of this video we’ll share our favourite wrist brace.
IN THIS POST:
- Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel
- Symptoms of Overuse/Tendinitis
- Treatments & How We Help
- Favourite Wrist Brace
Is It Carpal Tunnel Or Overuse?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Causes & Symptoms
Carpal tunnel syndrome is over-diagnosed.
This syndrome is caused by excess inflammation in the carpal tunnel (at the wrist), leading to pressure on the median nerve. It’s often caused by pregnancy or issues with excess inflammation.
Symptoms include:
- Tingling in the thumb and first few fingers
- Weakness in the wrist and hand
- Burning or numbness in the fingers
Carpal Tunnel – Treatment:
- Reduce Inflammation: Cooling the wrist, anti-inflammatory supplements like turmeric, and healthy lifestyle changes can help.
- Wrist Alignment: Use a wrist brace to keep the wrist aligned, especially during sleep (our favourite brace is listed at the bottom of this article).
Wrist Overuse Injuries – Causes & Symptoms
(These include tendinitis, arthritis and joint mobility issues)
- Repetitive use of the wrist, elbow or shoulder often from computers or repetitive lifting/twisting motions
- Pinched nerve in the neck
- Poor posture and/or long hours at your desk
Symptoms
- Aching or lack of mobility and strength in the wrist, especially when twisting or lifting
- Tenderness in the muscles of the elbow, behind the shoulder blade or in the neck
- Difficulty putting strain on your wrist with activities such as push ups or lifting
Very Effective Chiropractic Solutions
Alignment Check: We assess your wrist, elbow, and neck to ensure everything is aligned and determine the underlying cause.
Activator Adjustment: We use a handheld device called an activator to gently mobilize the joints in your wrist. This non-invasive tool helps free up locked joints, which can provide almost immediate lasting relief.
Stretching and Movement: Simple exercises like wrist circles or stretches can keep the area mobile and reduce tension. Try these:
Wrist Stretch (Palm Up): Straighten your arm and gently pull your fingers back with your other hand.
Wrist Stretch (Palm Down): Flip your hand and repeat the stretch to feel a light pull on the other side of your wrist.
Focus on posture: Ensure you’re not slumping at your desk.
Night Time Wrist Pain Relief: Many of us unconsciously curl our wrists while sleeping. Wearing a supportive brace keeps your wrist in proper alignment. Here’s our favourite.
The Wrist Brace We Use:
- Comfortable
- Adjustable for all sizes, making it a great option for everyone
- Can be used on either hand
- Supports proper wrist alignment
Wrist pain can be frustrating, but with the right care, you can find long term relief!
The chiropractors at Pure-Health offer non-invasive, gentle solutions to relieve pain and prevent it from returning.
If you’re unsure about the cause of your wrist pain or want to explore chiropractic options, feel free to reach out to us for an initial appointment.
