Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) affects millions of people every year, and it interferes with everything from work to sleep to daily tasks. If you're looking for a non-surgical approach to managing wrist and hand pain, chiropractic care may be a solution worth exploring. At Marshall Chiropractic & Wellness Center, we specialize in providing expert, non-invasive care for those suffering from this frustrating and painful condition.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, carpal tunnel syndrome affects 3 to 6 percent of adults in the general population. That’s millions of people dealing with tingling, numbness, and discomfort that impact daily life. So what exactly causes carpal tunnel—and more importantly, how do you treat it?
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve, which runs through a narrow passageway in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. This nerve controls movement and feeling in the thumb and first three fingers.
When swelling, misalignment, or repetitive movements irritate the area, the median nerve becomes compressed. The result? Numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain in the hand and wrist, especially in the palm, thumb, index, and middle fingers. Symptoms often begin gradually and get worse at night or after extended use of the hands.
Causes of Carpal Tunnel and Who's at Risk
CTS develops from a variety of sources, including:
- Repetitive hand movements (such as typing or assembly line work)
- Poor ergonomics or posture
- Pregnancy-related swelling, especially in the third trimester
- Misalignment of the small carpal bones in the wrist
- Muscle spasms or trigger points
- Arthritis, diabetes, or thyroid conditions
Women are more likely than men to develop carpal tunnel, particularly during pregnancy. Swelling in the wrists and hands during the third trimester cause temporary nerve entrapment. Although symptoms often improve after childbirth, chiropractic care during pregnancy offer comfort and support.
Chiropractic Care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
One of the most overlooked yet effective forms of carpal tunnel syndrome treatment is chiropractic care. At Marshall Chiropractic, we take a whole-body approach to relieving pressure on the median nerve by addressing joint alignment, muscle tension, and nerve function.
How chiropractic care for carpal tunnel works:
- Gentle adjustments to the wrist, elbow, and spine to reduce nerve interference
- Myofascial release and trigger point therapy to ease muscle tension
- Stretches and exercises to strengthen the forearm and wrist
- Lifestyle advice and ergonomic tips to reduce strain
- Cold therapy to decrease inflammation and swelling
When misaligned wrist bones are the root cause, chiropractic adjustments help restore proper positioning, freeing the median nerve from unnecessary pressure.
When to Start Treatment for Carpal Tunnel
The earlier you begin treatment for carpal tunnel, the better your chances are for a full recovery. Ignoring symptoms lead to permanent nerve damage, decreased grip strength, and lasting discomfort. At Marshall Chiropractic & Wellness Center, we design personalized care plans to fit your symptoms and lifestyle, helping you avoid surgery whenever possible.
Although some severe cases may still require surgical intervention, many patients successfully manage symptoms through conservative methods like chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, and supportive bracing.
Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If you're experiencing any of the following, it may be time to seek help:
- Tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in your hand or fingers
- Weakness or difficulty gripping objects
- Pain that worsens with hand use or during sleep
- Symptoms that improve when shaking out your hands
These signs usually begin in the dominant hand and progress over time. Chiropractic care offer carpal tunnel pain management before symptoms become more severe.
FAQ: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Q: Does carpal tunnel syndrome go away on its own?
A: Mild cases may improve with rest and changes in hand use, but early treatment is key to preventing long-term damage.
Q: How long does it take to see results with chiropractic care?
A: Many patients report relief after just a few sessions, although consistent care is recommended for lasting improvement.
Q: Is chiropractic treatment safe for pregnant women with CTS?
A: Yes! Gentle adjustments and soft tissue therapies help reduce discomfort caused by pregnancy-related swelling.
Q: Do I need surgery for carpal tunnel?
A: Not necessarily. Many cases respond well to non-invasive care like chiropractic adjustments, bracing, and exercise.
Carpal tunnel syndrome doesn’t have to be something you “just live with.” If you’re looking for a natural, drug-free approach to how to treat carpal tunnel, chiropractic care may offer the relief you've been searching for. At Marshall Chiropractic & Wellness Center, we’re committed to helping patients get back to doing what they love, without pain holding them back.
If you or someone you know is struggling with elbow, wrist, or hand pain, schedule a consultation with our team today. Let’s work together on a carpal tunnel syndrome treatment plan that fits your needs and lifestyle.
