Today, we’re going to revisit the subject of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. With the tremendous growth in technology, almost everyone is susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome since we use a computer keyboard, whether it’s at home, at work or both. When we use a keyboard, we receive micro-traumas to our hands and wrists. Vibration and repetitive motions, when combined with spinal problems and other joint dysfunction, can result in carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be caused by the cumulative damage of repetitive wrist and hand motions. Symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling in the thumb and index finger and middle finger, weakness or a loss of strength in the hands. The major nerve controlling the thumb, index, and parts of the middle, and ring finger is called the median nerve. The median nerve runs from your spine and neck area all the way to your first three digits. Problems can develop in one or more of these areas.

The “carpal tunnel” is formed by bones in the wrist and a ligament. Like a bow and a string. The bones are like the bow and the tendon is like the string. The median nerve, tendons, and blood vessels pass through this opening. If one or more of the bones forming this tunnel should "collapse" this reduces the amount of space in the tunnel and nerve pressure, and painful symptoms can result. Or chronic use of the tendons that go through the tunnel can get inflamed and swell up. This also reduces the amount of space in the tunnel and puts pressure on the median nerve and causes the symptoms as well.

Many people believe that “carpal tunnel” was pain running down the arm as well, but that would not be considered carpal tunnel syndrome. That would most likely means a “double crush injury. This is where the nerve is pinched in more than one area including the neck, shoulder, elbow or wrist.

The diagnosis for carpal tunnel includes A careful consultation, examination, x-rays and possible an MRI scan. Chiropractors are experts in the care of the bones, nerves, muscles and connective tissues that make up about 60 percent of your body. All of the joints in your body are part of this muscular-skeletal system and its optimal function is necessary for overall good health.

To begin a diagnosis, first, I would do a thorough examination. Depending on the findings, I would perform adjustments where needed to help normalize structure and reduce nerve irritation. Other options may include specific spinal adjustments, the Graston technique, cold laser, exercise recommendations, nutritional advice or other conservative methods of care based on your health history, age, current condition and lifestyle. Specific chiropractic adjustments can also help return malfunctioning joints to a more normal motion and position. When given time, conservative chiropractic care has produced excellent results with carpal tunnel problems - without drugs or surgery.