Carpal Tunnel Syndrome FAQs

If you’re feeling pain or numbness in your hands due to the stress of repetitive motions, you may be suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). This condition can make it difficult to perform daily tasks due to loss of range of motion in your hands. The following FAQs from Reimer Wellness Center in Los Altos, CA explain more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.  

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Your wrist is composed of a passageway or tunnel of ligaments and bones that protect the median nerve in your hand. If these bones shift out of alignment or your ligaments become swollen, they can put pressure on your median nerve, causing pain, numbness or weakness in your hand. This condition is called carpal tunnel syndrome.

What’s causing my carpal tunnel syndrome?

Numerous factors can contribute to developing this condition. These include:

• Wrist injuries like dislocations or fractures
• Repetitive hand movements that put undue pressure on your hands, such as typing, sports play, or work activities involving your hands
• Medical problems like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes
• Pregnancy

What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms may be mild or severe, depending on the severity of your condition. Common symptoms include:

• Swollen hands and wrists
• Acute or chronic pain in your hands or wrists  
• Tingling sensation or numbness in hands and fingers
• Loss of range of motion
• Difficulty gripping objects

CTS symptoms often start small and worsen over time. Some people only feel symptoms when using their hands or wrists. Others feel chronic pain or other symptoms all the time, making it difficult to perform daily tasks.

How can a chiropractor help with carpal tunnel syndrome?

After a thorough examination of your condition, our chiropractor can recommend options for treatment. We only use non-invasive, natural therapies when treating musculoskeletal issues like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Depending on your condition, we may start with wrist and elbow manipulation to reduce pressure from your median nerve. This will help relieve pain and inflammation. Massage can also help relieve inflammation by relaxing muscles in your neck, arms, wrists, and hands. We can also teach you wrist exercises that can restore range of motion and mobility.

Can carpal tunnel syndrome be prevented?

By reducing stress on your hands and wrists when performing repetitive activities, you can minimize your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Take frequent breaks from activities that put a strain on your hands and stretch your hands often to improve blood flow and flexibility.

See Our Los Altos, CA Chiropractor for CTS Treatment

To schedule a consultation for diagnosis and treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, contact Reimer Wellness Center in Los Altos, CA at (650) 949-3232.