The Annoying Wrist Pop and How Chiropractic Treats It
By Chris Brown
If you are like me, a popping from the wrist is an hourly occurrence. In my case, I can trace the popping directly back to a wrist injury when I was younger. However, oftentimes there is no specific cause for the popping sound in someone's wrist. If it happens enough, one may wonder about any danger of future complications, but most have never sought a clinical evaluation. Chiropractic offers a non-invasive solution for wrist poppers that may alleviate their wrists and help prevent future injury.
What Is That Wrist Popping?
Popping in the wrist most often occurs from nitrogen gas being released (as most joint popping is caused) or when tendons snap over tissues in their path. The extensor carpi ulnaris tendon is the most common wrist tendon to create this popping or snapping.
Is the Popping Harmful?
Generally, if the popping doesn't come with pain it should be harmless, though annoying. If pain starts to develop, however, it could be a sign that the cartilage or ligaments are injured, potentially leading to arthritis, bursitis, carpal tunnel, or tendonitis. Repetitive activities or trauma is often most to blame for a popping wrist becoming damaged. Commonly, athletes will partially dislocate or subluxate the extensor carpi ulnaris which can cause a permanent clicking in their wrists as the tendon now moves in and out of its normal path. Treatment and possible lifestyle changes might be needed to intervene and prevent further damage. Other than chiropractic, surgery is the most common treatment used. However, surgery can be an extreme and invasive option when compared to chiropractic manipulation.
How Does the Chiropractor Resolve Wrist Problems?
Chiropractors can help wrist problems by manipulating the tissue around the wrist and adjusting it to increase blood flow and mobility. This in turn may help relieve the popping noise and aid in healing of any structural issues. Sometimes, a misaligned or stuck bone is the cause of a wrist problem. If that is the case, the chiropractor can work to correct it in the session. A study of 55 elderly people with hand and wrist pain concluded that chiropractic work resulted in self-reported benefits and lessened pain.
For a wrist problem consultation, visit The Joint Chiropractic anytime during their convenient night and weekend hours. Walk-in sessions are encouraged, and prices are affordable without insurance. The Joint's doctors of chiropractic are waiting to correct your joint dysfunctions.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Nashville, Tenn.