arpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel—a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand—houses the median nerve and the tendons that bend the fingers. The median nerve provides feeling to the palm side of the thumb and to the index, middle, and part of the ring fingers (although not the little finger). It also controls some small muscles at the base of the thumb.
Sometimes, thickening from the lining of irritated tendons or other swelling narrows the tunnel and compresses the median nerve. The result may be numbness, weakness, or sometimes pain in the hand and wrist (some people may feel pain in the forearm and arm). CTS is the most common and widely known of the entrapment neuropathies, in which one of the body’s peripheral nerves is pressed on or squeezed.
Did you know….
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is thought to affect around 3% of the adult population and is one of the most commonly described nerve entrapments reported by the public. Many things can contribute to its development but often the cause is also not known.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I visit a chiropractor for carpal tunnel relief?
Carpal tunnel syndrome, particularly cases that have gone undiagnosed or treated for an extended period of time, that ends up being too painful and advanced to be handled with medicine may face surgery. However, Chiropractic & Osteopathy often helps minimise that option as a last resort. Regular visits to a Chiropractor or Osteopath can show positive results in the controlling and healing of many of the CTS symptoms.
How will a chiropractor treat my pain ?
A standard examination of hands, arms, shoulders, and neck determines if the symptoms are connected to daily activities or an underlying disorder. The chiropractor will also do a spinal manipulation to evaluate overall spinal health, review daily routines and look at medical history. Chiropractic joint manipulation and mobilization of the wrist and hand, stretching and strengthening exercises, soft-tissue mobilization techniques.
Is there anything I can do between appointments to alleviate my carpal tunnel?
Splinting the wrist with an orthopedic brace (available at pharmacies and physio clinics) can be really useful in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Being diligent with bracing especially at night time can reduce mechanical stress placed on the wrist and increase the space where median nerve travels.