Carpal Tunnel Syndrome- 5 Common Mistakes Doctors Make

San Francisco Carpal Tunnel Doctor Comments on mistakes doctors make when diagnosing CTS:

1. Assuming the cause of the pain is in the hand. The nerve inside the carpal tunnel is called the median nerve and it originates in the neck, where pressure is more likely.

2. Thinking that CTS is caused by repetitive use of the hands, like typing, meat packing, computer use, or hair cutting. True Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is actually rare. Yes, it is true that occupations that require repetitive motion can result in RSI (Repetitive Stress Injuries). However, you can't just throw the diagnosis CTS at it because there is pain in the hand or wrist. Chances are it is something else.

3.  Not referring out to chiropractors, who are experts in treating RSI, CTS, and other related disorders. Some chiropractors even specialize in back and wrist pain.

4. Prescribing wrist splints (for too long). Wrist splints can become a crutch when a patient is not receiving the right kind of treatment. Wrist splints and Motrin is a very typical "doctors prescription". The doctor never considered the neck, and could be missing the root of the problem.

5. NOT prescribing a cervical pillow or ice therapy. Often times, patients that present with arm and hand pain are stomach sleepers. Over time, this can lead to muscle spasms and pinched nerves in the neck. A cervical pillow helps correct this. Icing the neck and wrist helps to reduce inflammation. 

If you or someone you know is suffering from CTS related signs and symptoms, you owe it to yourself to see a chiropractor trained in carpal tunnel treatment.

If you live in the  San Francisco Bay Area and would like to meet with me to discuss your wrist pain, please call 415-392-2225 and ask for a complimentary CTS evaluation.  You may be a candidate for care.