Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Introduction
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is wrist pain that comes from extensive typing/computer work under less than ideal conditions. People typically get CTS from bad ergonomics in the setup of their work station. The other component is working long hours without taking a break to shake out their hands and wrists.
The anatomy
The carpal tunnel is a structure in the wrist where the wrist bones create a u-shaped tunnel on the sides and back of the wrist and the Transverse Carpal Ligament runs across the palm side of the wrist. The median nerve runs through the carpal tunnel and receives sensory information from the first 3 ½ digits of the hand starting with the thumb. The syndrome is cause by thickening of the tendons passing through the carpal tunnel, and swelling within the tunnel. The tunnel narrows because of the inflammation and cuts off blood flow and nerve information to the thumb, index, middle finger and half of the ring finger.
What chiropractic can do for CTS
Chiropractic treatment of the carpal tunnel involves adjusting the carpal bones, stabilizing the tunnel, and allowing the swelling and thickening of the tendons to resolve naturally. Things to look for is a crunching sound or snapping sound when rolling the wrist. This is an indication that the bones are not properly aligned, which can aggravate the syndrome. By adjusting the carpal bones, we are able to temporarily reduce the instability. Sometimes that is enough prevent the need for further carpal tunnel surgery. Exercises are also beneficial for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome and will also help to stabilize the carpal bones. The combination of these treatments are very effective in reducing wrist pain. Your results may vary, depending on how long the CTS has been bothering you.