Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a relatively common, chronic and disabling condition. This syndrome is typically characterized by nocturnal hand discomfort, finger paresthesias in the median nerve distribution in the hand, and muscle atrophy of the wrist. This condition is most frequently caused by compression of the medial nerve in the carpal tunnel of the wrist. It occurs most often between the ages of 30 and 60 and is 2-5 times more common in women. There are three main theories regarding the etiology of CTS:
Local entrapment of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel, especially from overuse.
Systemic diseases that cause neuritis affecting the median nerve, most commonly with people suffering with diabetes.
Fifty percent of people suffering with carpal tunnel have unknown etiology. CTS has also been found in association with menopause and late trimester pregnancy.
Initially, rest, immobilizing, and applying cold packs to wrist would be beneficial treatment for CTS. If symptoms persist, chiropractic joint manipulation and mobilization of the wrist and hand, stretching and strengthening exercises, acupuncture, and soft-tissue therapy with mobilization have shown to be quite helpful. Your doctor of chiropractic can discuss those therapies with you and help prevent the return of CTS.
Please feel free to contact Dr. Spaulding at cspauldingchiro@gmail.com, with any further questions.
The carpal tunnel syndrome
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