Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

It may surprise you to learn that chiropractors are not limited to treating the spine. Many conditions of the upper extremities (for example, hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder) can be effectively treated with a specific adjustment.

It may further surprise you to learn that nearly the same percentage of chiropractic patients seek care for extremity pain as neck pain, which is slightly more prevalent. Extremity pain comprises a hefty 18% of the chief complaints presented to chiropractors in North America (nearly half of that 18% have upper extremity pain), according to a survey of more than 3,200 chiropractors.

Common Causes of Extremity Pain

Of the 18% of patients who report extremity pain, some of the most common causes of that pain are carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis. According to a clinical study released in 2001, both these conditions respond positively to chiropractic care.

Carpal tunnel is very likely the most common of the upper extremity disorders. According to Dr. Timothy Jameson, advocate for Musician's Health, " treatment of this condition should begin as soon as the person begins to notice difficulty moving the fingers."

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is becoming more frequently recognized. It may result from similar, repetitive motion or the use of devices such as some computer keyboards. It affects the median nerve, the nerve that supplies feeling and movement to the thumb and "thumb-side" of the hand. The wrist is surrounded by a band of tissue that normally functions as a support for the joint. The tight space between this fibrous band and the wrist bone is called the carpal tunnel. The nerve passes through the carpal tunnel to receive sensations from the thumb, index, and middle fingers of the hand. Any condition that causes swelling or a change in position of the tissue within the carpal tunnel can squeeze and irritate this nerve. Irritation of the nerve in this manner causes tingling and numbness of the thumb, index, and the middle fingers, a condition known as "carpal tunnel syndrome."

What Causes Carpal Tunnel?

Carpal Tunnel is caused by an inflammation of the tissue that surrounds then tendons of the hand. This inflammation, in turn, causes restriction of the nerves in the hand causing pain and stiffness of the fingers and other joints in the hand. Carpal tunnel is most common among persons who type very frequently, play an instrument, knit/crochet or regularly fire at shooting ranges.

Team Lopez Chiropractic Care Can Help

If the description of the pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome sounds familiar; we have great news! Dr. Frank Lopez specializes in this kind of adjustment, which will normalize the nerve flow to the hand and surrounding tissues. Once the inflammation is reduced the body can begin the ever important process of healing.

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