Understanding Common Conditions

Below we’ll cover some common conditions of the hand areas and give you some at-home options (solutions towards the bottom of the page) for treatments that are easy to do at home and will help give relief and fast track your wrists, hands and fingers towards better health!

 

 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

 

The notorious Carpal Tunnel Syndrome! This condition occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm to your hand through a narrow passageway called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.  CTS often arises from repetitive hand movements and excess swelling within the arms, so take frequent breaks and stretch those fingers!  Keeping your hand from bending forward at the wrist at night can really make a difference to the pain experienced with this condition.  We’ve done a video (below) on how to help splint your hand using a spoon (of all things) from your cutlery draw, as well as some other great tips for healing CTS from home, including soaking your hands in SoulSoak Magnesium Salts, some great exercises and using Kirofix® Injury Relief Lotion and the Therapeutic Ultrasound.  Working on lymphatic drainage for this condition is also valuable to assist in resolving the increased fluid that frequently contributes to the symptoms in CTS.  Lots of very effective natural options to try before heading down the surgery path.  Give them a go! HERE. 

 

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

 

Fancy name, (did you try and pronounce it?) but quite the pain! This condition affects the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist, causing inflammation and discomfort. Symptoms include pain while gripping or twisting the wrist, in particular ulnar deviation (the wrist action required to hit a hammer).   Resting the affected hand, applying ice, using the Ultrasound and Kirofix® Injury Relief Lotion and avoiding repetitive thumb motions can do absolute wonders to speed up the Healing of this condition.  We also suggest using some Vacuum Cups on the tight thumb extensor muscles (found in the forearm) or seeing a Chiro for some Dry Needling on these muscles to alleviate the tension that is a major contributing factor to the inflammation involved in this condition.  Relieving tension is the part of treatment that’s often missed.  Treatments often focus solely on the inflammatory aspect, which don’t get me wrong is a critical factor, but they can forget to relieve the tension that caused the problem in the first place.  A holistic approach is how we relieve De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis faster and prevent recurrence.

 

Trigger Finger

 

No, it's not a condition exclusive to a western cowboy movie! Trigger finger occurs when the flexor tendon in your finger becomes inflamed, leading to difficulty straightening or bending the affected digit.  The inflammation prevents the smooth gliding of the tendon within the sheath and can often lead to the finger locking in the bent position, hence the name “trigger finger.” Over time this irritation can lead to a small lump forming on the tendon, known as a nodule, which can be felt in the palm of the hand.  The best way to handle this condition is to deal with the inflammation on the palm side of the hand and to release tension in the wrist flexor and extensor muscles.  

 

The belly of the wrist extensor muscles are found on the thumb side just below the elbow, and the belly of the flexor muscles of the wrist are found on the pinky finger side, just below the elbow.  Using massage techniques and Vacuum Cupping at home to break up the tension in these two groups of muscles restores balance and helps to prevent undue strain on the flexor tendon sheath.  Following this up with the use of Kirofix® Injury Relief Lotion and the Therapeutic Ultrasound on the palm is how we help reduce the inflammation within the sheath.  Please note, if nodules are present use the Bone Aid Relief Cream as well to help the body to reabsorb them.  Rub the lotion and or cream on before using the Therapeutic Ultrasound on the pulsed setting.  A 2-3 minute treatment is all that is required in this area.  In clinical practice, I would also incorporate Dry Needling into the regime, which, for obvious reasons, can’t be done at home.  Once again, looking at all of the contributing factors will pull the trigger on eliminating this condition long term.

 

 

Numb Fingers

 

Ever had the frustrating sensation of numbness in your fingers? This condition can arise from various causes, such as nerve compression, poor circulation, lymphatic drainage or other underlying medical conditions.  Believe it or not, nerve compression can occur in multiple places along the length of the nerve root and peripheral nerve.  Cervical (neck) disc issues tend to result in a dermatomal distribution of pain and numbness in the arm than if the peripheral nerve is being compressed under the armpit (see Thoracic Outlet Syndrome on the Shoulder Pain Page) or in the elbow (see Cubital Tunnel Syndrome on the Elbow Pain page) or in the wrist (see Carpal Tunnel Syndrome).  

Taking regular breaks, performing finger exercises and stretching the chest, shoulders, wrists and hands as well as avoiding prolonged pressure on the nerves can help alleviate numbness.  Once the location of the nerve entrapment is known, you can use the Therapeutic Ultrasound on the pulsed setting, in combination with Kirofix® Injury Relief Lotion, over this area to help reduce the inflammation and relieve any pain and numbness.  

 

When circulation is to blame we rely on our favourite friend, the Acupressure Mat. to bring normal sensation back into our hands.  Lying on your chest on the Acupressure Mat will help to alter the blood flow in and out of your arms.  You can also lay on your back with the mat facing upwards with your arms across the mat, enjoying the Spikey experience.  More blood flow coming your way! Leaning with your palms directly on the mat is another way to get the blood flowing freely.  Give it a try! 

 

If, on the other hand (pun intended!), excess fluid in your body is to blame for the altered sensation in your hands and fingers, nurturing your lymphatic system is called for.  Check out our blog on how to eliminate excess fluid from the body naturally HERE. 

 

 

Dupuytren's Contracture

 

This is a nasty one.  Depuytren’s Contracture is a condition that can leave your fingers in a permanently bent position, as it affects the connective tissue in the palm. You do get a little warning of it occurring though, as it typically starts with nodules or thickening of the tissue in the palm as a dead giveaway that this issue is on its way.  The thickening and nodules then lead to the gradual bending of one or more fingers.  The tighter the connective tissue, the more difficult it becomes to straighten the fingers making some daily tasks extremely difficult, such as taking lids off jars, doing up buttons, writing and even holding the steering wheel.   

 

Let’s look at a non-surgical approach to giving Depuytren’s contracture the flick.  First things first, immerse the hand in a hot SoulSoak Magnesium Salts bucket of water, letting the warmth seep into your very core. As your hands soak away, the heat works its magic, increasing blood flow and allowing over 80 essential elements and minerals present in this soak to be delivered to the connective tissue, all while encouraging your hand to regain its much-desired flexibility.

 

But that's not all—we're about to bring in the TRIO "dream team" of creams! With a careful application on the palm area and down the inside of your forearm, we're providing the body with the necessary building blocks it craves for localised healing. These creams are like the superheroes of the hand, ready to tackle Depuytren's contracture head-on.

 

Now, let's talk about our trusty sidekick, Therapeutic Ultrasound. This nifty gadget is here to complement the TRIO of creams, offering a one-two punch against inflammation, boosting circulation, and providing the extra energy needed for a speedy recovery. With Therapeutic Ultrasound by your side, Depuytren's contracture won't know what’s hit it.

 

Oh, and let's not forget the wonders of Vacuum Cupping! With our Vacuum Cupping set, you can target those muscles just below the inner elbow, easing the tension in the wrist flexor muscles that are at the heart of this condition. Say goodbye to tightness and hello to newfound freedom of movement!

 

In a clinical setting, we'd take it up another notch. Dry needling would come into play, offering precise and targeted relief. And let's not overlook the skilful Chiro adjustments of the elbow, wrist, hand, and fingers as required, ensuring we leave no stone unturned on the path to resolution.

 

 

Arthritis

 

 

A common condition affecting the joints, Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the wrist, hand, and fingers. Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) are the most prevalent types, with Osteoarthritis being the result of ongoing ‘wear and tear’, whereas Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease and therefore has a tendency to affect both sides, rather than an isolated joint. For more information on the differences between these two different types of arthritis and for some tips on healing at home read our blog HERE. 

 

Ultimately the goal is to open up the joints to ease this condition.  Start by warming the hands in a bucket with hot water and SoulSoak.  The heat brings the blood flow to the area, while the SoulSoak provides over 80 essential elements and minerals that are commonly depleted when suffering from a condition like arthritis. Soak the hands for approximately 10 minutes and then follow the stretches found in this exercise video on arthritis of the hands. check out this video. 

 

Now that we’ve opened up the joints, we can then use the TRIO of creams, which is perfect for addressing both the bone aspect and soft tissue aspect of Arthritis, regardless of whether it is RA or OA.  The Bone Aid Relief Cream provides the body with the building blocks for repair, while the Trauma Relief Cream provides the building blocks for the soft tissues involved, including the articular cartilage that is often badly worn in arthritic joints.  The Heativate® Relief Cream encourages the blood to flow to the joint, helping to take the building blocks for bone and soft tissue repair deep into the joint where they are needed to initiate the repair process.  Using the ultrasound in combination with the trio brings the energy required to fast-track healing even more, as well as helping to reduce inflammation that inevitably occurs when we continue to move arthritic joints. 

 

While the Trio of Creams and the Therapeutic Ultrasound has the healing side of things covered, one of the other key factors in helping the body heal arthritis is releasing the tension in the muscles that causes the joints to be so tightly held together, further exacerbating the bone on bone experience.  Stretching is a great way to achieve this, as is using the Vacuum Cupping set.  The cups are best placed on the forearm to aid in relieving wrist, finger and hand tightness.  

 

 

Ganglion Cysts

 

Ganglion cysts are noncancerous lumps that usually develop along tendons or joints of the wrist or hand. They’re filled with joint fluid and can vary in size.  The fluid from inside your wrist joint has found its way through the surrounding soft tissues and has become trapped there, in a bubble.  This commonly occurs when you do a repetitive motion with your wrists, like scrubbing the floors if you were a cleaner for example.  

 

In clinical practice we would adjust the ganglion, suddenly forcing the fluid back inside the joint and then we would immobilise the area using rigid strapping tape, to prevent it from being forced back out again immediately.  Over time, left unaggravated, the damaged area of soft tissue where the ganglion escaped in the first place, would eventually heal and prevent further escape of the fluid, therefore no more ganglion.

 

Using Kirofix® Injury Relief Lotion and the Therapeutic Ultrasound to the area where the ganglion was (after the adjustment) can assist the body to heal the damaged soft tissue faster. This will help prevent re-occurrence.  

 

 

Sprains And Strains

 

These are never nice! A sprain occurs when the ligaments that connect bones in a joint are stretched or torn, while a strain refers to the overstretching or tearing of muscles or tendons. These injuries can result from sudden twisting motions, falls, or repetitive movements. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, limited range of motion, and difficulty in performing daily activities. Quite inconvenient really!

 

Resting the injured hand is always a good place to start, to give the muscles, tendons and ligaments a chance to heal.  If you have a Therapeutic Ultrasound and the Kirofix® Injury Relief Lotion, you can use it immediately to speed up the healing process. If you don’t have the Ultrasound, apply the Wrap-On-Ice pack.  This will not only ice the area, but also provide compression to help reduce swelling.  When using the Wrap-On-Ice pack, elevate the affected limb above the heart to further aid in the healing process.

 

 

Natural Solutions For Wrist, Hand And Finger Pain You Can Do At Home! 

  

Now, let's explore some natural solutions to aid in healing these wrist, hand, and finger conditions at home!

 
 

RICE Method

 

When it comes to acute injuries like sprains, the RICE method reigns supreme. 

Rest the affected area, 

Ice to reduce inflammation, 

Compress the area with a bandage, 

Elevate the injured limb. 

Pro tip: Elevating your hand above heart level helps reduce swelling and speeds up recovery.

 

Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and alleviate symptoms. Sass tip: Consult a physical therapist or occupational therapist for guidance on exercises tailored to your specific condition.

 

Hot and Cold Therapy

 

Slippery pack of peas no more!! Lose the frustration of not being able to keep ice in its place.  The Wrap-on-Ice pack, heated or frozen, are the perfect ice/heat/compression solution and on hands and wrists, a strap-on is very convenient! 

Alternate between hot and cold therapy to promote blood flow, reduce inflammation and ease pain. 

How long: Use a heat pack or warm towel for 15-20 minutes, followed by a cold compress for 10-15 minutes.

 

Therapeutic Ultrasound For Wrist And Hand Pain

 

Here comes the superhero of our story! Therapeutic Ultrasound is a non-invasive treatment that utilises high-frequency sound waves to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation. 

 

It’s a portable, plug-in Therapeutic Ultrasound device designed for home use, following the manufacturer's instructions for safe and effective treatment, just like what you'd get at a practitioner's clinic. So convenient you can even take it on holiday!

Prepare to unleash the power of therapeutic ultrasound, the non-surgical hero in your wrist, hand, and finger journey! With its gentle yet potent sound waves, this treatment dives deep into the tissues, ready to tackle sprains, strains, carpal tunnel syndrome, De Quervain's tenosynovitis, and more. Wave goodbye to pain as inflammation surrenders and healing gains momentum. Feel the flow of increased blood, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to fuel your speedy recovery. Bid adieu to tension as scar tissue surrenders to improved range of motion. 

Using the Kirofix® Injury Relief Lotion in combination with the Ultrasound can lead to a powerful charge in dealing with inflammation and initiating the healing response.  The Therapeutic Ultrasound and Kirofix® are your secret weapons, silently and effectively fighting on the front lines of wrist and hand ailments, let alone being able to use it at home which gives you a significant advantage!

 

Finger and Hand Stretching Exercises and Hot Magnesium Soaks

 

Get ready for a dynamic duo that will make your hand feel like it's lounging in a spa! Begin with a luxurious hot SoulSoak Magnesium salts soak, immersing your hand in warm goodness to boost blood flow, nourish your tissues, and encourage flexibility. Then, let the magic of stretching exercises take centre stage. (Video above) With gentle movements, help your hand loosen those tight connective tissues and beckon the healing forces to dance within.

 

TRIO Of Creams For Pain Relief And Healing

 

Welcome to the ultimate TRIO of Creams, your hand's personal dream team for localised healing. These creams are like the Avengers of the palm, ready to battle wrist and hand ailments. Apply them with confidence, to the palm, inside of the forearm, and inner elbow. Bone Aid Relief Cream, a guardian of bone health packed full of Comfrey as the star main active ingredient, fortifies against arthritis and the nodules that arise in Depuytren’s contracture and trigger finger. Trauma Relief Cream, packed full of Arnica, Magnesium, Glucosamine, Kunzea & Yarrow (and more!) Helps the soft tissues, delivering relief and quelling inflammation. Heativate® Relief Cream, with capsaicin and black pepper (just to name a few!) ignites the fires of improved blood flow, ensuring the nutrients reach their destination swiftly. Let this formidable TRIO unleash its powers and accompany you on your healing journey.

 

Vacuum Cupping Set 

 

Say hello to the at-home Premium Vacuum Cupping Set, the cool, showy kid on the block, here to relieve tension in those wrist flexor muscles that have been causing a ruckus. With targeted precision, Vacuum Cupping can take on the tight muscles just below the elbow, which are responsible for wrist and finger movement.  Reducing muscle tension like a fading memory and allowing you to enjoy the newfound mobility of your wrist and fingers. The Vacuum Cupping set is your trusty sidekick on the path to healing.

 

 

Should I See A Chiro For Wrist, Hand And Finger Pain? 

 

Remember, these at-home treatments and amazing tools work well in most cases, but if your symptoms persist or put up a fight, it's time to seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
 

In the realm of clinical care, and how I would treat at my Chiro clinic, we would bring the A-team; Dry Needling, gentle Chiro Adjustments and some overall comprehensive care. Dry Needling takes aim at specific trigger points, releasing the lactic acid that’s caught in the muscles normalising tension and bringing relief. Chiropractic adjustments step in, ensuring your joints find their groove for optimal performance. Embrace a holistic approach that considers your whole body, not just the ailing parts. Dr Kez at Life Balance Adjustments has the expertise to provide comprehensive care, making sure every aspect of your wrist, hand, and finger ailments are addressed.

Click HERE book a Telehealth or in-clinic appointment at Life Balance Adjustments with Dr Kez.

  

Being armed with these natural solutions, you can tap into your inner healing hero and reclaim the health and function of your wrist, hand, and fingers. Get ready to show those ailments who's boss as you embark on a journey of restoration and recovery!