Wrist strain is a prevalent condition among people who work long hours in front of their computers or engage in repetitive hand movements. It usually manifests as pain and discomfort that affect your ability to do your work and daily activities. Some people may wonder if this condition goes away on its own without seeking treatment. In this blog post, we will explore this question and discuss the best ways to manage wrist strain including physiotherapy and chiropractic care.
Wrist strain is a type of repetitive strain injury that affects the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your wrist and forearm. It is caused by repetitive movements of the wrist and fingers, such as typing, playing a musical instrument, or using hand tools. Over time, these repetitive actions can cause micro-injuries in the tissues, leading to inflammation and pain. If left untreated, wrist strain can worsen and affect your quality of life.
The good news is that in some cases, wrist strain can go away on its own if you take a break from the repetitive activity that caused it. Resting your wrist, avoiding repetitive movements, and applying ice packs can help reduce inflammation and pain. However, if you have a severe case of wrist strain, these remedies may not be enough.
Physiotherapy is a common treatment for wrist strain. A physiotherapist can help you strengthen the muscles in your wrist and forearm, improve flexibility, and restore function. They may also use modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or heat therapy to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery. Depending on the severity of your condition, physiotherapy may take a few weeks to a few months to complete.
Chiropractic care can also be an effective treatment for wrist strain. A chiropractor can help restore proper alignment in your wrist and spine, reduce tension in the muscles and joints, and improve nerve function. Chiropractic adjustments, massage, and stretching exercises can help alleviate pain and improve wrist mobility. Chiropractic care may take a few weeks of sessions to see noticeable improvement.
Aside from physiotherapy and chiropractic care, there are also some lifestyle changes you can make to manage wrist strain. For example, avoiding activities that strain your wrist, taking frequent breaks, using ergonomic equipment, and maintaining good posture can help prevent wrist strain from recurring.
In conclusion, wrist strain is a common condition that affects many people who engage in repetitive hand movements. While some mild cases of wrist strain can go away on their own, more severe cases may require medical intervention. Physiotherapy and chiropractic care are two effective treatments for wrist strain that can help alleviate pain and improve wrist function. By making some lifestyle changes and seeking treatment early on, you can prevent wrist strain from affecting your quality of life. So, if you’re experiencing wrist strain, it is best to seek the help of a medical professional as early as possible.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
