Have you noticed that your handshake seems a little less firm than it was even just a few years ago? Or have you ever had your hand suddenly cramp up while you’re writing? Weakness in our hands is something that sometimes creeps up on us, and it can really put a kink in daily life.

Pain in your hands and wrists can be frustrating. It feels like everything you do aggravates that pain. Locating the cause of your pain isn’t always easy, either. Sometimes, it’s obvious (slamming one’s hand in a door is generally a bad idea), but sometimes, the reason for pain or numbness is elusive. Many times, the cause of the pain isn’t rooted in the hand or wrist; sometimes, it’s much further away than one would think.

Chiropractic is often the best way to address hand issues, especially if you’re lucky enough to find a chiropractor who specializes in extremity manipulation (there aren’t many who do, believe it or not). Dr. Roger Walker, of Gulph Mills Chiropractic Center, is one of the few in the King of Prussia & Main Line area who can help.

Grip strength is affected by many factors such as hand injury or arthritis, chronic muscle tightness in the hands or forearms, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and circulation problems. Many people still may have weakness from nerve problems stemming from poor movement or alignment of the neck which often goes unnoticed.

A chiropractor who specializes in extremity manipulations, such as Dr. Walker,  can determine what the cause of most hand weaknesses are, and can map out a plan to treat it effectively. If you’ve suffered from any of the following problems, call Gulph Mills Chiropractic Center to schedule a Complimentary Initial Assessment, including x-rays if necessary.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve in the wrist gets compressed. Painful numbness and tingling sensations present in the hand or arm. In more severe cases grip strength is also impacted.

Osteoarthritis

Often referred to as simply “arthritis,” this painful issue presents with pain in the fingers and wrist. Joints in the hand and wrist become inflamed and the cartilage between the joints of the fingers and wrist become worn and scrape against each other. This can result in swelling and the formation of hard nodes.

Lack of treatment for hand/wrist osteoarthritis can result in a vicious cycle: Osteoarthritis causes increased stiffness, stiffness reduces movement, lack of movement worsens the stiffness and so on. Restoring proper movement is therefore essential to slowing the progression of the disease. Gentle chiropractic adjustments are used to break up stiffness and restore normal movement patterns. Exercises are incorporated to maintain hand movement and flexibility.

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is problem that is commonly associated with the overuse. The tendon in the index finger becomes inflamed and painful. The term got its name from gun use but can occur with other repetitive activities. At times the finger can become locked in a bent position.

Writer's Cramp

Writer’s Cramp is a repetitive strain injury that results in pain and cramps in the hand and forearm. It is most often seen with repetitive use and griping of a writing or non-writing utensil.

We consistently use our hands and wrists throughout our daily activities to engage with our surrounding world. Don't let hand and wrist pain prevent you from enjoying your daily routine. Call Gulph Mills Chiropractic today to schedule a Complimentary Initial Assessment: 484-751-5037.