Wrist Pain: Understanding Wrist Instability and Double Crush Syndrome
Wrist pain can severely limit your ability to perform daily tasks, such as typing, writing, or carrying objects. Two common causes of wrist pain are wrist instability and double crush syndrome. Both conditions can result in chronic discomfort, decreased strength, and limited range of motion, but with the proper treatment, relief is possible.
Wrist instability occurs when the ligaments that support the wrist joint become damaged or stretched, causing the bones in the wrist to shift out of their proper alignment. This can lead to pain, weakness, and a feeling of “giving way” in the wrist. Wrist instability can be caused by trauma, such as a fall or an injury, or by repetitive strain over time. If left untreated, it may lead to further damage to the wrist joint, making it difficult to perform simple movements.
Double crush syndrome refers to a condition where a nerve is compressed at two separate points along its pathway, often leading to pain, numbness, or tingling sensations. In the case of wrist pain, double crush syndrome commonly involves compression of the median nerve in both the carpal tunnel (located in the wrist) and at the cervical spine (neck). This condition can cause symptoms that mimic carpal tunnel syndrome, including numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, and weakness in the hand. Patients with double crush syndrome may experience worsening symptoms when engaging in activities that involve repetitive wrist or hand movements.
At The Barefoot Chiro, we offer a comprehensive approach to managing wrist pain, particularly wrist instability and double crush syndrome. Chiropractic care focuses on improving wrist joint alignment, reducing tension in the surrounding muscles, and restoring normal nerve function. For wrist instability, we utilize specific adjustments and soft tissue therapies, such as dry needling and IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation), to relax tight muscles and restore proper wrist movement. These therapies help alleviate pain and strengthen the wrist joint, preventing further instability.
