What is Carpal Tunnel?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, commonly referred to as simply Carpal Tunnel, is widely misunderstood. The carpal tunnel is an opening in the wrist through which the median nerve passes from the hand up the length of the arm. Whether due to overuse or misalignment, the tissues around this tunnel quickly become irritated and begin to swell. 

As a result of this swelling, undue pressure is put on the median nerve, causing burning, tingling, pain, and swelling to areas of the wrist, hand, and fingers. In extreme cases, pain from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome may extend up the arm. 

While thousands of people suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, it is not a permanent condition! With proper and timely treatment through chiropractic care, the effects of carpal tunnel can be relieved entirely.

Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel

Many individuals experience mild weakness or pain after using their wrists or hands excessively. With computers and handheld devices on the rise, many people wonder if they have developed carpal tunnel. Although mild wrist or hand pain may be a warning sign of carpal tunnel syndrome, a few symptoms point to this type of nerve compression.

Some of the most common symptoms of carpal tunnel include the following:

• • Burning or tingling in the hands or fingers
  • Numbness originating in the thumb or index finger
  • A sensation of pin and needles in hand or fingers
  • A feeling of swelling without visual confirmation
  • Sharp pain radiating up the length of the arm
  • Stiff fingers or wrists upon waking

Although some individuals suffering from carpal tunnel may experience these symptoms periodically, most individuals experience constant discomfort until relief is provided through chiropractic care.

Because carpal tunnel syndrome continues to worsen with continued use of the wrist, it is important to seek timely treatment! Without professional treatment, carpal tunnel may pose serious, lifelong risks such as impaired fine motor movement or atrophy of the forearm muscles.