Chiropractic Care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common conditions affecting the hand and wrist. Find out more about chiropractic care for carpal tunnel syndrome.

What Is the Carpal Tunnel?

The narrow carpal tunnel is a passageway in the wrist that protects the median nerve. The median nerve is responsible for sensations in the first three fingers and the thumb. The carpal tunnel also contains tendons that help move the fingers.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

This syndrome occurs when there is pressure placed on the median nerve. This pressure can cause weakness, numbness, and tingling in the arm, hand, and fingers. It is a common condition that affects millions of people each year.

What Are Some Risk Factors?

Several risk factors can contribute to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome. Some of these include:

• Repeated use of the hands and wrists in activities such as typing or knitting
• Working with vibrating tools or machines
• Having a medical condition such as diabetes, arthritis, or thyroid disease
• Pregnancy
• Smoking
• Being overweight
• Eating a diet high in inflammatory foods

Cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Several things can cause this syndrome. These include:

• Wrist injury
• Overuse or repetition of use
• Arthritis

Symptoms and Progression of Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel is a condition that affects the hands and wrists. The carpal tunnel is a small space in the wrist that allows the tendons and nerves to pass through. When this space becomes narrow, it can put pressure on the nerves and tendons, causing pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands and fingers.

The symptoms of carpal tunnel can vary from mild to severe. In the early stages, you may only experience occasional numbness or tingling in your fingers. As the condition progresses, the symptoms may become more frequent and severe, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as buttoning a shirt or typing on a keyboard.

If left untreated, carpal tunnel can lead to permanent nerve damage. If you think you may have carpal tunnel, it’s important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan are the best way to prevent long-term complications.

How Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?

This syndrome is diagnosed with a combination of examination and nerve testing. The doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history and examine your hands and wrists for signs of swelling, tenderness, or weakness.

Nerve testing may be done to confirm the underlying problem. This can include electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies. These tests measure the electrical activity of the muscles and nerves to help determine if there is damage to the median nerve.

You may also need imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scan to rule out anything that can cause similar symptoms. Treatment for carpal tunnel is based on the severity of your symptoms and how much they impact your life.

How Can a Chiropractor Help with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Chiropractic treatment can help relieve the symptoms of this syndrome by adjusting the bones in the wrist and hand. This takes the pressure off of the median nerve and can provide relief from pain, numbness, and tingling. Chiropractic care can also help to improve the range of motion and flexibility in the wrist and hand, helping you get relief from this debilitating issue with an individualized treatment plan.

Conclusion

Carpal tunnel is a condition that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers. The painful condition is often treated with decompression surgeries or prescription medicines, but alternative treatment options, including chiropractic care, can be just as effective without the risks, complications, or side effects. 

Dr. Darren Faherty D.C.

In 2004, Dr. Darren Faherty graduated with a Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from UWEC - University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Dr. Darren continued education at the highly esteemed University of Western States (formerly Western States Chiropractic College) where he obtained his chiropractic degree in 2007. He has been helping people recover from injuries and return to their normal lifestyles ever since.