Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Don't let Carpal Tunnel take over your life

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition, affecting an estimated 4-10% of the population, with women being three times more likely than men to develop the condition (1,2). CTS occurs most commonly in people aged 40-60 years, but can affect anyone of any age

What Can Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Several factors have been identified as potential risk factors for developing CTS, including repetitive use of the hand and wrist, pregnancy, obesity, arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid disease (3). Jobs that involve repetitive motions of the hand and wrist, such as typing, assembly line work, and using vibrating tools, also increase the risk of developing CTS.

While CTS is common, not everyone who experiences wrist or hand pain has CTS. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Early diagnosis and treatment of CTS is important to prevent progression of the condition and reduce the risk of permanent nerve damage. Treatment options for CTS include non-surgical interventions such as splinting, physical therapy, and Chiropractic Care. Surgical options may be considered in more severe cases.

So Then, What About Chiropractic Care?

Spinal mobilization is a gentler technique that uses slow, sustained pressure to improve joint mobility and reduce muscle tension. This can help improve circulation to the affected area and reduce inflammation, which can relieve CTS symptoms.

In addition to manual therapies, chiropractors may also recommend exercises and stretches to help improve wrist and hand strength and flexibility. This can help reduce the risk of future CTS flare-ups and improve overall wrist and hand function.

Studies have shown that chiropractic care can be effective in reducing CTS symptoms. A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation and mobilization, was effective in reducing CTS symptoms and improving function in patients with mild to moderate CTS (4).

Another study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that a combination of manual therapy and exercise was effective in reducing CTS symptoms and improving grip strength and wrist function in patients with CTS (5).

Don't Just Take Our Word For It

There is a growing body of research on the health benefits of Chiropractic care, and many studies have shown that this type of care can be effective in the treatment and care of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

References:

1. Katz JN, Simmons BP. Carpal tunnel syndrome. N Engl J Med. 2002;346(23):1807-12.

2. Padua L, Coraci D, Erra C, et al. Carpal tunnel syndrome: clinical features, diagnosis, and management. Lancet Neurol. 2016;15(12):1273-1284.

3. Shiri R. Carpal tunnel syndrome. Handb Clin Neurol. 2015;131:89-103.

4. Davis, P. T., Hulbert, J. R., & Kassak, K. M. (1998). Comparative efficacy of conservative medical and chiropractic treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome: a randomized clinical trial. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 21(5), 317-326.

5. Fernández-de-las-Peñas, C., Cleland, J. A., Ortega-Santiago, R., de-la-Llave-Rincón, A. I., Martínez-Perez, A., & Pareja, J. A. (2017). Effectiveness of manual therapy and therapeutic exercise for carpal tunnel syndrome: a randomized clinical trial. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 47(3), 151-161.