Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and How Chiropractic Care Can Provide Relief

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) has emerged as one of the most common occupational health issues today, affecting millions of people each year. As our reliance on computers and handheld devices continues to grow, this condition shows no signs of slowing down. CTS occurs when pressure is applied to the median nerve, located just above the wrist. This pressure can result from repetitive activities, such as typing, chopping, hammering, or pushing. Whether from an injury or prolonged use, the symptoms of CTS can be debilitating, causing wrist pain, numbness, tingling, burning sensations, weakness, loss of grip strength, and even disrupted sleep.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is typically caused by increased pressure on the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. The condition is often linked to repetitive motions or overuse of the wrist, but it can also result from injuries or misalignments in other parts of the body. Common activities that contribute to CTS include:

• Typing: Prolonged typing on a keyboard can strain the wrist and put pressure on the median nerve.
• Chopping and Hammering: Repetitive movements, such as chopping vegetables or using tools, can increase the risk of CTS.
• Pushing: Continuous pushing motions can lead to inflammation in the wrist and pressure on the nerve.

Recognizing the Symptoms of CTS

The symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can vary, but they generally include:

• Wrist Pain: Persistent discomfort around the wrist area.
• Numbness and Tingling: A sensation of “pins and needles” in the fingers or hand.
• Burning Sensation: A feeling of heat or burning in the hand or wrist.
• Weakness: Loss of strength in the hand, making it harder to grip objects.
• Sleep Disruption: Pain and discomfort that can affect your ability to sleep.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help Relieve CTS Symptoms

Chiropractic care offers an effective solution for treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by addressing the root causes of the condition. While CTS is often associated with wrist issues, it can also result from misalignments in the neck or spine. A chiropractor can provide relief by focusing on these areas:

• Spine and Neck Adjustments: Misalignments in the neck or upper back can contribute to nerve pressure, leading to CTS symptoms. Chiropractic manipulation of the neck and spine helps relieve this pressure and restore proper nerve function.
• Wrist Adjustments: A chiropractor can also perform adjustments directly on the wrist, reducing pressure on the median nerve and promoting better circulation and movement.
• Physical Therapy: Chiropractors may incorporate physical therapy techniques, such as stretches and strengthening exercises, to improve wrist flexibility and reduce strain on the carpal tunnel.

Additional Treatments for CTS Relief

Chiropractic care is often combined with other effective treatments to relieve Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, including:

• Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching of the wrist and hand can help improve flexibility and reduce tension.
• Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the wrist, providing support and reducing strain on the median nerve.
• Ergonomic Adjustments: Chiropractors may offer advice on proper posture and ergonomic modifications to reduce the risk of CTS, particularly for individuals who spend long hours at a desk or on the computer.

Get Back to Pain-Free Living

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can severely impact your quality of life, especially if left untreated. Chiropractic care offers a natural, non-invasive solution to alleviate and even eliminate the symptoms of CTS. With targeted adjustments, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications, chiropractic treatment can help you regain full function of your wrist and return to your daily activities without pain or discomfort.

If you’re experiencing the signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, don’t wait to seek help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward relief.