Chiropractic Treatment for Carpal Tunnel
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a pinching or compression of the median nerve between the bones of the wrist, the carpal tunnel. When this occurs, patients with CTS may experience numbness, tingling, or even slight pain on the palm side surface of the hand. At the beginning, this pain most often occurs at night and awakens the patient with numbness, caused by flexing the wrist during sleeping. With progression, the pain may occur during daytime and become constant. Aching pain may radiate to the elbow and shoulder. The typical pattern of CTS pain involves the index, middle, and half of the ring finger. In later stages CTS may include wasting of the muscles at the base of the thumb.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is commonly brought on by occupational overuse of the wrist where the wrist is either held or moved into the flexed (bent toward the palm) position. One common problem is the use of vibratory hand tools, which repeatedly abuse the hand and wrist or trauma from a wrist fracture. True CTS seldom involves both hands, except during pregnancy, and very seldom extends beyond the level of the wrist.
Medical intervention for CTS most often involves Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery. Although these surgeries are about 90% successful, they often heal slowly and almost all show fibrotic or keloid formation.
Chiropractic treatment for CTS is non-surgical intervention. This may involve the use of non-steroid, anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, and immobilizing the wrist by use of a splint during rest. Dr. Stark will adjust and massage the wrist and carpal tunnel to slightly increase the dimension within the carpal tunnel and increase the mobility of the carpal joints. He may also prescribe pyridoxine (vitamin B6*) which may help to reduce the edema of CTS. The best outcomes, however, are attained by early diagnosis and occupational modifications to prevent further damage to the carpal tunnel and its contained structures.
*Caution: Although vitamin B6 is a natural and necessary nutrient, its consumption must be monitored for toxic conditions. Do not take excess vitamin B6 or any other drug without the supervision of a licensed physician who can monitor your for the various side effects. If you are pregnant, consult your Obstetrician.