How Chiropractors Can Help Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, also known as CTS, is a painful condition that affects millions of people in the United States every year. It occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed. The median nerve is the main nerve that runs down the forearm to the hand and is responsible for transmitting messages from the brain to the limb and vice versa. While there are many treatments that claim to relieve CTS symptoms, the long-term solution is to visit a chiropractor.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

By far the most common cause of CTS is repetitive movements that strain the tendons in the forearm and wrist. Repeated movements cause inflammation around the tendons that compress the carpal tunnel, which is the tissue that covers the median nerve.

Any activity that requires small, repetitive, and continuous movements of the forearm and wrist can result in CTS. Using a computer mouse, typing, needlecraft, painting, writing, and gaming are examples of these kinds of activities.

Although CTS can affect anyone, you are more likely to develop the condition if:
 

• You’re pregnant

• You’re overweight

• You suffer from illnesses such as diabetes or arthritis

• You have close family members who have CTS

• You have previously injured your wrist

What Are the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The symptoms of CTS develop gradually over time and may get increasingly noticeable or severe. In the early stages of the condition, patients may find that their hands feel numb when they wake up and may shake them to get their feeling back. They may also experience painful hands during the night, with a discomfort severe enough to wake them up and keep them awake. Other neurological symptoms of this type include tingling, coldness, and burning.

As the symptoms of CTS worsen, patients may experience loss of sensation and control in their fingers and hands. This can make certain activities difficult such as gripping objects, doing up buttons, typing, or opening a jar.

How Can a Chiropractor Help Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

There are several ways in which chiropractic treatment has shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of CTS. The following are some of the key techniques offered to patients with this condition.

Spinal Manipulation

A misaligned spine may contribute to the development of CTS. Chiropractic adjustments, which are also known as manual or spinal manipulations, are sudden, controlled movements designed to rebalance the spine. The intention is to improve the body’s physical function. Spinal manipulations release trapped nerves and tendons, improve blood flow, and help to reduce inflammation and pain.

Ultrasound Therapy

Chiropractors may use ultrasound to help alleviate issues like CTS. Ultrasound therapy uses low-energy sound waves which penetrate deep into the body without harming the skin. This technique relaxes the muscles, alleviates pain, and reduces inflammation.

Advice and Support

Chiropractors have received specialist education and training in other ways to support patients too. Your chiropractor will be able to advise you on how to reduce symptoms and prevent your carpal tunnel from getting worse.

For more on treating carpal tunnel syndrome, visit Integral Chiropractic at our office in Foster City, California. You can call (650) 212-1414 today to schedule an appointment.