Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand, wrist and arm. The condition occurs when one of the major nerves to the hand — the median nerve is squeezed or compressed as it passes through the wrist. Fast-repetitive movements of the fingers can cause the tendons that travel through the carpal tunnel to rub together, creating friction. Without treatment or modifications, it is likely the numbness/tingling in your hands and fingers will gradually worsen.
Every tissue in our body has a certain capacity or threshold and if it is exceeded, problems will surface, and there are factors that can make some of us more susceptible to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). After CTS, the next most common pinch nerve is the ulnar nerve at the inner elbow, which is technically called “cubital tunnel syndrome” (CuTs). This is often caused from over-use of the arm such as lifting and/or gripping with the palm up. The unique difference between CuTs and CTS is that the pinky and ring finger are affected but NOT the index, middle, and thumb-side ring finger, which are the median nerve-innervated fingers affected by CTS. Because over-use is also a common cause of CTS these two conditions can co-exist, in which case all five fingers may be affected but not necessary all at the same time.
We are trained to differentiate between these various “syndromes” and to safely deliver treatment to the affected joints, muscles, and other soft tissues to reduce pain and restore proper motion so patients can return to their normal activities of daily living. Come see us at Total Body Chiropractic if you suffer from numbness, tingling or pain in your fingers, hand wrist or arm.