Carpal Tunnel

Can Chiropractic Care Help with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Each year, thousands of people experience the painful symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), which include tingling, numbness, burning, and even difficulty grasping objects. Carpal tunnel release surgery is one of the most common procedures performed in the United States, yet recent studies show that nearly half of these surgeries fail to provide lasting relief. This has led many to seek out alternative options like chiropractic care, which offers a non-invasive way to manage CTS symptoms effectively.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist that houses the median nerve—a nerve that extends from the spine through the wrist to the hand. When this tunnel becomes swollen, it can compress the median nerve, causing the symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. This pressure restricts sensation and movement in parts of the hand and fingers, often leading to pain, numbness, and weakness. Interestingly, women are three times more likely than men to develop CTS, likely due to the generally smaller size of the female carpal tunnel.

Why CTS is Difficult to Diagnose

CTS can be challenging to diagnose accurately because symptoms often overlap with other conditions. Repetitive motion activities like typing, construction work, or assembly line tasks are thought to increase the risk, but genetics may also play a role, as some people naturally have a smaller carpal tunnel.

Adding to the complexity, similar symptoms can arise from conditions like arthritis, spinal disc degeneration, or subluxations in the cervical spine that irritate the median nerve. Misdiagnosis is not uncommon, and this often leads to unnecessary or ineffective treatments.

Common, Invasive Treatments and Their Risks

Many conventional treatments for CTS, such as steroid injections and surgery, are invasive and not always effective. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Engineering found that nearly 50% of carpal tunnel surgeries fail to relieve symptoms, often because of a misdiagnosis. This highlights the importance of seeking non-invasive options, such as chiropractic care, as a first line of treatment for CTS.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Chiropractic care offers a natural, drug-free approach to managing and relieving CTS symptoms. Organizations like the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and the University of Maryland Medical Center recognize chiropractic as an alternative treatment option for CTS, especially for those looking to avoid surgery.

Since the median nerve originates in the cervical spine, chiropractors can investigate any potential spinal misalignments or nerve compression that may be contributing to CTS symptoms. Chiropractic treatment for CTS may include:

• Gentle Manipulation of the Wrist and Elbow: Adjustments to the wrist and elbow help reduce tension, improve circulation, and alleviate nerve compression.
• Spinal Adjustments: Realigning the cervical spine reduces nerve irritation that could be causing CTS-like symptoms.
• Soft Tissue Therapy: Chiropractors may use techniques to relieve muscle tension around the wrist and forearm, which can reduce pressure on the carpal tunnel.

The Importance of Early Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Left untreated, CTS can lead to permanent damage, particularly in the thumb and fingers, where function may be severely compromised. Early diagnosis and non-invasive treatment, like chiropractic care, can significantly reduce the risk of long-term damage and potentially eliminate the need for surgery.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of CTS, consider scheduling a consultation with a chiropractor. A quick assessment can identify potential issues and create a plan to address the root causes of your discomfort, setting you on the path to relief and helping you avoid unnecessary surgical procedures.