What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes numbness, tingling and other symptoms in the hand and arm. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is caused by a compressed nerve in the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist. That area is know as the median nerve, and it’s where all of the complications originate.
What are the symptoms?
- Numbness, tingling, burning, and pain—primarily in the thumb and index, middle, and ring fingers
- Occasional shock-like sensations that radiate to the thumb and index, middle, and ring fingers
- Pain or tingling that may travel up the forearm toward the shoulder
- Weakness and clumsiness in the hand—this may make it difficult to perform fine movements such as buttoning your clothes
- Dropping things—due to weakness, numbness, or a loss of proprioception (awareness of where your hand is in
Who is at risk?
The risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome is not confined to people in a single industry or job, but is especially common in those performing assembly line work – manufacturing, sewing, cleaning, or landscaping. In fact, carpal tunnel syndrome is three times more common among assemblers than among data-entry personnel. In addition, the hormones associated with pregnancy can cause swelling and exacerbate CTS symptoms.
Carpal Tunnel and Chiropractic
Over 70% of those who had CTS have symptoms that reappear after a year or two. Chiropractic, along with massage, are two treatments that can possibly help to prolong the necessity of Carpal Tunnel surgery. Also, it is provides relief to those with returning symptoms after surgery. By keeping the joints open and allowing for better mobility, the risk of inflammation tends to lessen and keep the nerves from compressing. In addition, massage can also aid in the reduction of inflammation by keeping the muscles relaxed and aiding in the proper flow of blood to the affected areas. Go ahead, give Chiropractic a try for your CTS needs.
post written by: Ebony Baker, LMT.