What You Need To Know About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, And Solutions

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand. The condition occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel—a narrow passageway in the wrist made up of bones, tendons, ligaments, and other tissues. When pressure is placed on the median nerve, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms that affect the hand and wrist.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

CTS develops when the space within the carpal tunnel becomes too tight, leading to compression of the median nerve. Several factors can contribute to this compression, including:

Anatomy: Some people naturally have a smaller carpal tunnel, making them more prone to nerve compression.
Injury or trauma: A previous injury to the wrist can lead to swelling or scar tissue, narrowing the tunnel and putting pressure on the nerve.
Medical conditions: Conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, and inflammatory arthritis can increase the risk of developing CTS due to inflammation and other changes that affect the wrist and surrounding tissues.
Repetitive motion: Repeated hand movements, such as typing, using a mouse, or operating vibrating tools, can irritate the nerve, particularly in jobs that involve high-volume manual tasks.
Pregnancy and menopause: Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can lead to fluid retention, which may also increase pressure in the carpal tunnel.

While the condition is most commonly seen in adults, women are three times more likely to develop CTS than men. The dominant hand is typically affected first, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The symptoms of CTS can develop gradually, with discomfort often worsening over time. Common signs include:

Burning, tingling, or itching in the palm of the hand, particularly in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
Numbness or a feeling of swelling in the fingers, even when there’s no visible swelling.
Pain or discomfort that worsens at night, especially if you sleep with flexed wrists.
Weakened grip strength that makes it difficult to form a fist or hold small objects.
Atrophy (muscle wasting) at the base of the thumb in severe cases, leading to difficulty with gripping or pinching.
Inability to distinguish between hot and cold by touch.

As CTS progresses, it can interfere with daily activities, making it harder to perform tasks such as typing, gripping a pen, or using tools.

How Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Develop?

The development of CTS can be influenced by several factors:

Genetics: A smaller carpal tunnel can increase the risk of nerve compression.
Overuse and repetitive motions: Jobs or activities that require repetitive wrist movements, such as assembly-line work or long hours of typing, can lead to the gradual development of CTS.
Health conditions: Diabetes, hypothyroidism, and inflammatory arthritis are common conditions that can increase the risk of CTS by affecting the nerves and tissues in the wrist.
Pregnancy or menopause: Fluid retention during pregnancy or menopause can cause swelling, which increases pressure in the carpal tunnel and can lead to CTS.

Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The earlier CTS is diagnosed, the more effectively it can be treated. There are a variety of treatment options available, ranging from non-surgical methods to surgical intervention in severe cases. Some common treatments include:

Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and manual manipulations can help improve wrist mobility, reduce inflammation, and alleviate nerve compression. Chiropractors may also provide exercises to strengthen and stretch the wrist and hand muscles to promote healing and prevent further injury.
Ergonomic Adjustments: One of the most effective ways to prevent or manage CTS is to make changes to your work environment. Proper wrist positioning, ergonomic keyboards, and wrist supports can significantly reduce the strain on your wrists and minimize the risk of developing CTS.
Wrist Splints or Braces: Wearing a wrist splint, especially at night, can help keep your wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve. This can be particularly helpful for those who sleep with flexed wrists, a common habit that worsens symptoms.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Specific exercises aimed at improving wrist flexibility and strengthening the forearm muscles can help relieve pressure on the median nerve and prevent future flare-ups.
Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce swelling and provide temporary relief.
Surgical Treatment: If symptoms persist and conservative treatments don’t provide relief, surgery may be considered. The most common procedure is carpal tunnel release, where the ligament pressing on the median nerve is cut to relieve pressure.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common condition that can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term damage and improve quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with mild discomfort or more severe symptoms, a combination of conservative treatments, including chiropractic care, ergonomic adjustments, and physical therapy, can often provide significant relief without the need for surgery.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Cole Pain Therapy Group today to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you manage your symptoms and improve your wrist health.

NEW PATIENTS

Step 1

Call today to schedule your convenient appointment.

Step 2

Pre-register your important health information on your phone or computer to save time.

Step 3

Meet your new doctor for a customized plan and start moving toward your goal!

Discover how we may help!

We are the Memphis area’s top-rated chiropractic group, providing you with gentle chiropractic care, dry needle therapy, exercise therapy, and therapeutic massage.

2845 Summer Oaks Dr, Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

Life Shouldn't Hurt!

You Deserve To Feel Great. We Can Help!
Your go-to Chiropractor in Memphis, TN

Richard L. Cole, DC, DACNB, DAIPM, FIACN, FICC
Jeffrey D. Luebbe, DC, CCRD, CCSP
W. Steven Vollmer, DC, DAAPM
Bradford J. Cole, DC, MS, CSCS
J. Colby Poston, DC
Daniel H. Smith, DC
2845 Summer Oaks Dr., Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

Monday – Friday:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday :
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Walk-ins are Welcome!