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 pins and needles in the 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.