Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) has become one of the most widespread occupational health problems we face today. It affects millions of people a year, with more people spending increasing hours at computer keyboards and “mousing” and with our growing reliance on computers, we have seen an increase in carpal tunnel syndrome and there seems to be no end in sight.

At the base of the palm is a narrow passage through which tendons and nerves must pass on their way to the hand and fingers. This is what we call “The Carpal Tunnel”.

If anything takes up extra room, things become too tight and the nerve in the passage becomes constricted or “pinched”. This pinching of the nerve can be caused by an injury or sustained use from common activities like typing, chopping, hammering, or pushing. Symptoms range from wrist pain, numbness, tingling, burning, weakness or loss of grip strength, and loss of sleep due to discomfort. numbness and tingling in the area of the hand that the nerve travels to resulting in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

A thorough examination including orthopedic and neurologic testing and X-rays studies, if necessary, will help to determine your exact diagnosis and individualized treatment plan. The key to successful treatment is removing the inflammation surrounding the median nerve and correcting the underlying biomechanical causes including poor posture, poor ergonomic environment at work, and improper technique while exercising. Joint and soft tissue manipulation by the chiropractor, physiotherapy, cold laser therapy, massage therapy and myofascial release techniques, and/or nutrition, and modifications of the home, work, and health club routines are very effective in resolving the condition and its related symptoms.