Chiropractic for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is a common condition that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and wrist. There are many traditional treatment options available for carpal tunnel syndrome, including medication, splinting, and surgery. However, chiropractic care is an alternative treatment option that is becoming increasingly popular. In this blog post, we will discuss chiropractic for carpal tunnel syndrome, including its benefits and what patients can expect from treatment.

Causes and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve in the wrist becomes pinched. This can happen due to a variety of factors, including repetitive motion, injury, and medical conditions such as arthritis. As well, carpal tunnel symptoms can arise because of a pinched nerve in the neck. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can include pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and wrist, as well as weakness and difficulty with fine motor skills. Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and may be confirmed with nerve conduction tests.

Traditional treatments for CTS

Traditional treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome include medication, splinting, and surgery. Medication can help alleviate pain and inflammation. However, medications may only provide temporary relief and can be addictive. Splinting can help keep the wrist in a neutral position to reduce compression on the median nerve. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases, but it is a more invasive option that can require a long recovery time.

Chiropractic for carpal tunnel syndrome – an alternative treatment

Chiropractic care is a non-invasive alternative treatment option for carpal tunnel syndrome. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to address the underlying issues that can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome. Spinal adjustments can help improve nerve function and muscle strength throughout your body. (1) As well, wrist mobilization and adjustments can help improve range of motion and reduce compression on the median nerve. (2, 3, 4) Chiropractic care is often used in conjunction with other treatment options, such as splinting and exercise therapy.

Further, chiropractors can help can help reduce the chances of nerves getting pinched by helping with posture and spinal alignment.

What to expect from chiropractic treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome

Chiropractic treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome typically involves a series of appointments over a period of weeks or months. The number of appointments needed will depend on the severity of the condition and the individual patient’s response to treatment. Patients can expect to see improvement in their symptoms over time, and may also experience improved range of motion and strength in their hand and wrist. Potential risks and side effects of chiropractic care are rare but may include soreness or stiffness after treatment.

Here’s what to expect during a first visit with Edmonton chiropractor Dr. Dean Collins.

I had so much pain in my right hand that I could not hold a pen or cup.  My MD told me I had carpal tunnel and told me to wear a hand brace and take prescription anti-inflammatory medication.  I did not know what to expect when I saw a chiropractor for the first time, however Dr. Collins was very calming and informative.  Nothing he did in my treatment was painful.  Within just a few visits my hand was actually better!  Dr. Collins knew I did not have carpal tunnel.  He actually had me x-rayed (which my MD never did) and found that I had degeneration in my neck.  The bone spurs were pressing on the nerve that affected my whole arm.  That was ten years ago.  As I have aged, a few more symptoms have cropped up but Dr. Collins has always “nipped them in the bud”.  Dr. Collins also makes sure that your emotional health stays in good working order along with the physical.

Linda H. (business owner and manager)

Conclusion

If you are experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, it is important to explore all of your treatment options. While traditional treatment options such as medication and surgery can be effective, they may not be the right choice for everyone. Chiropractic care is a non-invasive alternative treatment option that can help address the underlying causes of CTS and provide long lasting relief. Contact our office to learn more about how chiropractic care can help you find relief from carpal tunnel syndrome.

To learn more about how chiropractic care could help you and your family, read Dr. Collins’ complete guide to chiropractic care: Chiropractic Care for Everyone.