Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is most recognizably caused by computer use, which is pervasive in the work world. However, studies have shown that those most at risk for developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome are people working in manufacturing.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is characterized by numbness or tingling in the thumb and fingers nearest the thumb, pain in the wrist that extends to the elbow, and hand weakness. It tends to affect more women than men, affects 2-3% of the general population, and 90% of cases are in people over the age of 30.

The carpal tunnel is the U-shaped cluster of 8 bones at the base of the palm. The strong ligament arched across these bones creates the roof for the tunnel, and within the tunnel is the median nerve which controls sensations and movement in the hand. When the tunnel narrows, it creates pressure and reduced blood supply to the median nerve, resulting in painful symptoms.

Chiropractic is often beneficial for the treatment of CTS. Chiropractors may use gentle manipulation of the wrist and hand, or may identify and treat an underlying cause of pain that isn’t attributed to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

For more information on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome treatment or pain management, contact Health Star Chiropractic. Health Star Chiropractic team offers licensed care to the Montgomery, Prattville, Millbrook communities.

Sources:

Ashworth, Nigel L. (Dec 2008) “Carpal Tunnel Syndrome”

http://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/0715/p265.html