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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

    Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common compression neuropathy involving the hand. While this condition has a well-established symptom complex effecting the hand, the cause is actually a result of compression of the median nerve at the wrist where it passes through the carpal tunnel. The median nerve controls the thumb muscles, and is also responsible for sensation felt in the thumb, the palm, and the first three fingers of the hand.

    Early symptoms of this condition are intermittent pain, burning, tingling and/or numbness involving the areas described above, then progressing to muscle weakness and atrophy with increased pain. The symptoms may be at their worst in the morning or at night. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by a number of things, but is most commonly associated with repetitive wrist motion, which is linked to continuous use of the fingers. Other causes are wrist trauma, arthritis, gout, diabetes, pregnancy or water retention, drug side effects, or any combination of causes. Carpal tunnel syndrome also effects women between the ages of twenty-nine and sixty more frequently.

The first step in treatment is to determine the underlying cause and correct it. Followed by the restoration of wrist joint motion, reduction of the pain and any swelling. The use of chiropractic manipulative therapy for this condition is a direct, safe and effective non-surgical treatment for mobilizing the wrist joints and restoring function. If there is any swelling present, this can be reduced with the use of ice, and massage. Place the ice over the wrist for 10 minutes per hour, for a couple days. Check back with your doctor if there is no reduction of symptoms. The wrist should be rested, but only to the extent of eliminating any painful movements, all other moderate activity can be continued. The use of a splint at night may also be helpful. Nutritional support should include Vitamin B6, which has been shown to be very effective for carpal tunnel. 

    Clinical studies report that over 90% of patients show improvement of function and reduction of symptoms. Bromelain and Vitamin C are also helpful nutritional supplements. Check with your doctor for determination of proper dosages. The use of a physical modality, such as ultrasound, can also assist treatment and healing. In severe cases, the use of a low-energy "cold" laser should be sought before surgery. Surgery may still be required, but due to the side effects and complications, a second option should be obtained.

After the symptoms have resolved, wrist exercises and proper biomechanics can strengthen the wrist and help prevent any reoccurrence. 

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