Can Chiropractic Care help with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Chiropractic care diagnoses, treats, and prevents disorders of the musculoskeletal system (usually the spine). While conventional treatments for CTS often involve medication, splinting, or surgery, many people seek alternative approaches or add something to official medicine, for example, chiro for carpal tunnel. Chiropractors may diagnose and treat some musculoskeletal imbalances that contribute to the symptoms of CTS.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist, houses the median nerve along with tendons that control finger movement.
Carpal tunnel symptoms may include:
- numbness;
- tingling;
- pain in all the fingers.
Some people may also experience weakness in the affected hand, making it difficult to grasp objects or perform fine motor tasks.
CTS is often associated with repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as typing, using a computer mouse, or engaging in activities that involve gripping or vibration.
The Role of Chiropractic Care in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Chiropractor for carpal tunnel pays attention to the nervous system of the spine. They take a holistic approach to treating different musculoskeletal conditions, including CTS.
Chiropractic care for CTS typically involves the following:
- Spinal Adjustment. Chiropractors perform spinal adjustments to restore proper alignment and mobility to the spine. This can help relieve pressure on the nerves that contribute to CTS symptoms. The procedures are typically done in the neck, upper back, and wrist.
- Joint Mobilization. In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may perform joint mobilization techniques to improve the range of motion and function of the affected wrist and hand joints. The proper joint mechanic restoration can alleviate stress on the median nerve and reduce symptoms.
- Soft Tissue Techniques. Chiropractors use massage and stretching exercises. This may help with the treatment of muscle imbalances and tightness in the forearm, wrist, and hand.
- Ergonomic and Lifestyle Recommendations. Chiropractors often guide ergonomic modifications and lifestyle changes to minimize factors that contribute to CTS. This may include recommendations for proper workstation setup, wrist splinting, exercises to strengthen the hand and wrist, and advice on posture and body mechanics.
Chiropractic care may be used as a standalone therapy or as part of an approach that includes other conservative treatments for CTS.
Chiropractic Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
At Cross-Up Chiropractic, we provide care by adding the personal needs and symptoms of patients with CTS to the plan.
- Spinal Adjustments. Our skilled chiropractor performs targeted spinal adjustments to address misalignments or subluxations in the spine. By restoring proper spinal alignment, your nerve function may improve, which may help alleviate CTS symptoms.
- Extremity Adjustments. In addition to spinal adjustments, our chiropractor specializes in extremity adjustments, focusing on the affected wrist, hand, and arm. These precise adjustments can help restore joint mobility, reduce inflammation, and relieve pressure on the median nerve.
- Soft Tissue Therapy. Our chiropractic treatments for CTS often include soft tissue therapies such as massage, myofascial release, and stretching techniques. These therapies aim to reduce muscle tension, improve blood circulation, and enhance tissue healing in the affected areas.
- Lifestyle Modifications. Our chiropractor provides valuable guidance on ergonomic modifications and lifestyle adjustments that can alleviate CTS symptoms. We offer recommendations for proper posture, exercises to strengthen the hand and wrist, and techniques to avoid repetitive strain.
- Customized Treatment Plans. At Cross-Up Chiropractic, we understand that every individual’s CTS is unique. Our chiropractor will develop personalized treatment plans, depending on your symptoms and work toward long-term relief. At Cross-Up Chiropractic you may also get complementary treatment to boost results, e.g. acupuncture.
At Cross-Up Chiropractic clinic for your CTS treatment, you can be sure of our expertise in chiropractic for carpal tunnel care and our commitment to providing patient-centered solutions.
