Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects the hand and wrist, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers. The compression of the median nerve, which runs through the wrist and into the hand, causes CTS. Repetitive motions, such as typing or playing musical instruments, may be the cause. In addition, other underlying conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes, may also cause carpal tunnel syndrome. If you are experiencing pain from carpal tunnel syndrome, visiting a chiropractor in Fredericksburg could help.
Chiropractic care is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. It is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option that can be effective in relieving the symptoms of CTS.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for CTS
The first step to chiropractic treatment for CTS is proper diagnosis of the condition. Based off your symptoms and objective examination the diagnosis can be made whether the condition is true CTS or a compilation of other conditions that create the symptoms. Evaluation of the neck should be done to identify any contributing neck problems that can make CTS symptoms worse. CTS affects the median nerve so symptoms should be felt in that distribution of the thumb index middle and half of the ring finger, and should be only present in the hand. Symptoms that begin above the wrist should be evaluated for other conditions that may contribute to CTS symptoms. CTS treatment is complex and may consist of treating all areas that have active problems such as the neck and the flexor retinaculum which is the covering at the wrist that aids in holding your wrist flexor tendons down. Other conditions your chiropractic orthopedist needs to rule out are things that mimic CTS such as a bulging disc, or spinal stenosis. This can be done through a series of maneuvers that tries to reproduce the symptoms you are feeling and give your doctor a better idea of the root cause. X-rays are also useful and may be performed. If it is CTS then your chiropractor may use physical therapy modalities like ultrasound applied to the wrist at the flexor retinaculum to aid in the relaxation of this band that reduces the pressure in the area. Splinting may also be necessary to keep the wrist from entering an unfavorable position for the condition. Activity modification will also be useful to allow the area proper rest. If the diagnosis is not CTS then other treatment appropriate to the proper diagnosis will be administered.
Chiropractic care can also help to improve overall posture, reducing the risk of developing CTS in the first place. Poor posture can put extra stress on the joints and nerves of the hand and wrist, which can lead to CTS. Chiropractors teach patients how to maintain proper posture, reducing the risk of developing CTS.
In addition to these benefits, chiropractic care can also help to improve overall health and well-being. With a holistic approach that addresses not just the symptoms of CTS, chiropractors also address the underlying causes. Chiropractors may also provide advice on diet and exercise, and may recommend other therapies, such as massage or acupuncture, to help improve overall health and well-being.
Other Considerations with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
It’s important to note that CTS can be caused by multiple factors. Your doctor may evaluate some of these things with other studies such as lab tests, nerve conduction studies, or MRI.
Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment option for people with CTS. Consider consulting a chiropractor to see if this form of treatment may be right for you.
Reach out to our Fredericksburg team at Stine Chiropractic Clinic to schedule an appointment.
