Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The term Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is commonly used when discussing hand pain. It is widely assumed that CTS is caused by overuse of the hands, and time spent typing on the computer. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist that is formed by bone on three sides, as well as a strong band of connective tissue on the top. Since the perimeter of the carpal tunnel is tight, it has very little room to stretch. CTS occurs when the tunnel shrinks and puts pressure on the nerve that runs through the tunnel. The nerve, called the main nerve, is one of the largest nerves in the hand It originates in the neck, and controls sensations and muscles in the hand. When the tunnel swells, it it puts pressure on the nerve, resulting in pain and numbness in the hand.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel
One of the largest contributors to CTS is genetics. Since the size of the tunnel is an important factor in the constriction of the nerve, those with smaller bones are at a higher risk. Certain health conditions such rheumatoid arthritis, gout, diabetes, and lupus also lead to a higher risk of developing CTS. These health conditions may lead to swelling in the joints or reduced blood flow, which can contribute to the onset of CTS. Injury to the wrist or arm is another risk factor for developing Carpal Tunnel; injuries in these areas can result in new bone growth, putting more pressure on the main nerve. The hormone changes in pregnancy are another contributing factor to the onset of this syndrome. The most commonly associated cause is repeated hand and wrist movements which causes membranes surrounding the tendons to swell. This is why people often associate typing with CTS.
Symptoms
Pain from CTS ranges from moderate to severe, and can radiate from the hand to the shoulder. Less severe pain normally presents in numbness or pain in the hand, forearm, or wrist. Many times, the pain is severe enough to wake you up from sleeping. The pain is comparable to a numb sensation or tingling, and often worsens when you are using your hand. Stiff fingers are another common symptom. Severe pain from CTS can make it hard to perform simple tasks, like brushing your teeth. Loss of of the ability to pinch small things is also common.
While loss of sensation can occur in both hands, it is most likely to be worse in one had. If there is a sudden onset of numbness in your hands, it may indicate a more severe medical condition, and it is important that you seek care immediately. Otherwise, if you experience several weeks of increasing amounts of pain, or gradually lose the ability to do certain household tasks with your hands, CTS is a likely perpetrator.
Treatment
The goal of treatment for CTS is to restore feeling to the hand(s) and enhance one’s ability to complete daily tasks. It is important to seek care early to ensure that nerve loss is not permanent. Chiropractic treatment is a viable option for the treatment of CTS, and addresses the multiple origins of the issue. Interestingly, malalignment of the spine can contribute to CTS. Chiropractors are experts in adjusting the spine, and can offer this approach as part of a CTS treatment plan. Adjustments and manipulations of joints in the neck are other methods that chiropractors use for treating CTS.
A study from 1998 showed that chiropractic treatment worked as effectively as surgical interventions for the treatment of CTS. More recent studies have shown that the positive effects of chiropractic treatment on CTS persist for 6 months or more.
