What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a painful nerve problem that interferes with the use of your hand.  It occurs when tissue or bone puts pressure on the nerve that runs from your neck through your wrist to your fingers.  At first, you may have numbness, tingling, or burning in your hand.  Shooting pain in your wrist or forearm may follow, and your grip may become week.
What causes CTS?

• Repetitive hand movements - such as working on an assembly line, at a computer, or with power tools - can cause the tendons to become inflamed and press the nerve against the carpal tunnel.
• An injury to the wrist or arthritis in the wrist joint can cause a bone to protrude into the carpal tunnel.  The tunnel becomes narrower, putting pressure on the nerve.  An injury to the neck can also cause the nerve to swell and press against the tunnel.
• Fluid retention can cause the tissue in the carpal tunnel to swell and press on the nerve.

What can Chiropractic do to help?

• To reduce inflammation and relieve pressure on the nerve, your chiropractor may manipulate your thumb, fingers, or wrist.  He or she may also massage your forearm or press on joints in your neck and upper spine.
• Your chiropractor may suggest other types of treatment to reduce pain and restore range of motion.  These may include using a splint or brace, electrical stimulation, ice, ultrasound, trigger point therapy, or exercises.

Information from Krames Communications.