Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated with Laser by Marine City, MI Chiropractor

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm into your palm, becomes compressed at the wrist. This nerve travels through the carpal tunnel—a narrow passageway of ligament and bones at the base of your hand. The compression can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist, often making daily activities challenging.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common nerve issue. It usually affects people who do the same hand and wrist movements a lot, like typing or working on an assembly line.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Common symptoms of CTS include:

• You might feel tingling or numbness in your fingers or hand. This often happens at night and usually starts in the thumb and the first three fingers.
• Weakness in your hand, causing you to drop objects, which can be particularly troublesome in tasks requiring precision.
• A shock-like feeling that travels to your fingers, often accompanied by discomfort in your wrist and forearm.
• Symptoms usually get worse with repeated wrist movements or long use of the hand. They can also worsen with certain wrist positions while sleeping or during daily activities.

Traditional Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Before diving into laser therapy, it’s essential to understand the conventional treatments available for CTS. Traditionally, treatment options include:

• Wrist Splinting: Often worn at night, splints keep your wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve. They are a simple, non-invasive option that can be effective for mild to moderate cases.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) help relieve pain and reduce swelling. However, they do not fix the main problem. Using them for a long time may cause stomach issues.
• Corticosteroid Injections: Administered directly into the carpal tunnel, these injections can decrease inflammation and swelling. However, repeated use can weaken tendons or cause other complications.
• Surgery: In serious cases, doctors may do a procedure called carpal tunnel release. This helps relieve pressure on the median nerve. While often successful, it involves recovery time and potential risks, such as infection or nerve damage.

These treatments can be effective, but they may not work for everyone. Some treatments have side effects or need a lot of recovery time. Hence, exploring alternative, less invasive options like laser therapy becomes appealing for many sufferers.

What Is Laser Therapy?

In our office, we use Class IV Laser therapy. This is also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or cold laser therapy. It is a non-invasive treatment. It uses light energy to help healing.

Light energy goes through the skin and tissues. It helps cells heal and reduces swelling and pain.

Cold lasers are different from other laser treatments. They do not produce heat and do not harm tissues. Instead, they create helpful biological changes without causing thermal effects.

How Does Laser Therapy Work?

Laser therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths of light into the body. These wavelengths penetrate the skin and reach the tissues, where they:

• Increase circulation, which can help bring more oxygen and nutrients to the affected area, accelerating the healing process.
• Reduce inflammation by decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals and stimulating the release of natural anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Stimulate cell regeneration, encouraging the repair and growth of new, healthy tissue.
• Promote healing by enhancing cellular energy production, which can improve tissue repair and reduce pain.

The therapy is painless, and sessions typically last between 5 and 20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated. Patients often say they feel a warm or tingling sensation during treatment. This can enhance the overall healing effect.

Benefits of Laser Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Laser therapy offers several benefits for those suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

Non-Invasive and Drug-Free

One of the most significant advantages of laser therapy is that it is non-invasive and drug-free. Patients can avoid the potential side effects of medications and the recovery time associated with surgery. This makes it very appealing to people who want a natural way to manage their condition. They can avoid using drugs or facing surgery risks.

Promotes Natural Healing

Laser therapy helps the body heal naturally. It increases blood flow and lowers swelling.

This can lead to faster recovery and less pain without the need for medications or surgeries. Laser therapy focuses on the root cause of symptoms. It aims to give lasting relief instead of just hiding the pain for a short time.

Quick and Convenient

Laser therapy sessions are relatively quick, often completed in under 30 minutes. This makes it a convenient option for busy individuals who may not have the time for more extensive treatments. The procedure is non-invasive, so there is no downtime. Patients can return to their daily activities right after treatment.

Effective Pain Relief

Many patients report significant pain relief after just a few sessions of laser therapy. This can lead to improved quality of life and the ability to return to regular activities without discomfort. Reducing pain can help improve sleep quality and mental well-being. Chronic pain often affects mood and energy levels.

Marine City MI Chiropractor Treats with Laser Therapy

In Marine City, MI, The Gilbert Clinic of Chiropractic and Massage helps treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with laser therapy. These professionals are trained to assess your condition, determine the appropriate treatment plan, and deliver laser therapy sessions effectively. Their knowledge of musculoskeletal health helps them find the root causes of CTS. They offer complete care that goes beyond just managing symptoms.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Marine City, MI chiropractor offers personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. By looking at your symptoms and medical history, they can find the best way to treat your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. This personalized approach makes sure that each patient gets the best care. It helps maximize the benefits of laser therapy.

Comprehensive Care

In addition to laser therapy, chiropractors often provide comprehensive care that may include:

• Chiropractic Adjustments: To improve wrist and hand alignment, potentially reducing pressure on the median nerve. These changes can help your joints work better and reduce nerve irritation.
• Exercise and Stretching Programs: To strengthen the muscles around the wrist and hand, improving function and reducing symptoms. Tailored exercises can also enhance flexibility and prevent future occurrences of CTS.
• Lifestyle and Ergonomic Advice: To help you make changes that may reduce strain on your wrist and prevent future problems. This might involve recommendations for ergonomic workplace setups, posture corrections, and modifications to daily routines to minimize repetitive stress.

What to Expect During a Laser Therapy Session

When you visit The Gilbert Clinic of Chiropractic and Massage for laser therapy, you will receive a complete evaluation. You will also receive a clear explanation of the treatment process. During a session:

1. Consultation: Your chiropractor will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. This first step is important. It helps us understand your condition and set realistic goals for treatment results.
2. Preparation: You’ll be positioned comfortably, and the area of treatment will be exposed. The chiropractor will ensure that you are at ease and understand each step of the procedure.
3. Laser Application: The chiropractor will use the laser device on your wrist and hand. They will move it gently to cover the area evenly. This part of the session is designed to be relaxing, with most patients feeling a gentle warmth or tingling sensation.
4. Post-Treatment: After the session, you’ll discuss any immediate effects and schedule follow-up sessions if needed. Your chiropractor may also provide additional advice on exercises or lifestyle changes to support your recovery.

Conclusion

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome doesn’t have to control your life. With laser therapy, you can find relief from the pain and discomfort without invasive procedures or medications. This innovative approach offers a non-invasive, drug-free alternative that promotes natural healing and provides significant pain relief. In Marine City, MI, The Gilbert Clinic of Chiropractic and Massage offers this advanced treatment. It helps you get back to your daily activities easily. If you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, think about trying laser therapy. It may help relieve pain and improve your life. This approach not only addresses symptoms but also empowers patients to take charge of their health and well-being.

About The Gilbert Clinic of Chiropractic and Massage

The Gilbert Clinic of Chiropractic and Massage is in Marine City, MI. It is the premier chiropractic office in the Blue Water Area. Dr. Kevin G. Gilbert is a Board Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician. He specializes in treating various conditions and injuries. People in the Blue Water Area seek our help for various types of pain. This includes sudden onset of pain as in sports injuries, car accidents or slip and falls. As well as chronic ongoing pain such as arthritis, migraines and headaches.  Call us today to schedule your appointment. 810-765-4100.