Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition marked by a tingling or numbness sensation in the area of the wrist and hand, which may eventually cause weakness and wasting of the thumb muscles. It is found in pregnancy and in people who perform repetitive daily tasks with the fingers or hands, such as computer operators, cashiers or assembly line workers. While diabetes and an under-active thyroid should be ruled out, the usual cause of CTS is an irritation of nerves in the neck and/or wrist or forearm.

 

CTS is known as a double crush syndrome meaning that nerve compression may start in the neck, perhaps in the forearm and finally in the carpal tunnel in the wrist. The problem is usually due to compression of the median nerve which runs from the fingertips, through the carpal tunnel, up the arm, through the shoulder and neck, and all the way to the spinal cord. If the bones in the neck and or wrist change position or lose normal movement, the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel can be felt from the neck to the fingers. A chiropractor can analyze the neck and wrist area and make slight adjustments to the bones to reduce any unwanted pressure on, or damage to, the median nerve. Since the nerve travels along the arm and shoulders, a chiropractor may recognize the need to adjust these areas as well.

 

Successful chiropractic procedures may eliminate the need to take the surgery or medical drug route. In the end, this could save the patient time, money and further pain. If you are experiencing carpal tunnel symptoms, call our office to see how we can help you!