Carpal Tunnel Syndrome...

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is associated with tingling, numbness and or pain the hand, fingers, or wrist. Compression of the median nerve inside the carpal tunnel can cause these symptoms. The Carpal Tunnel itself is a small tunnel that is formed by the alignment of eight carpal bones in the wrist. A group of tendons, ligaments, and the median nerve run through this tunnel. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is associated with pressure of the median nerve and it is most commonly seen in individuals who perform repetitive tasks, such as computer work. Pressure on the median nerve can be caused by three ways:

1. Bad diet: American diet is typically high on fat, red meat, salt, and lots of other inflammatory substances. An inflammatory diet will promote water retention all over from internal organs to the lining of ligaments and tendons. An inflammatory diet can cause water retention in the Carpal Tunnel, and thus put pressure on the median nerve. This is also known to be the cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in pregnant women due to their higher water retention throughout pregnancy.

2. Overuse: each of the eight carpal bones in your hand can become subluxated or misaligned relative to each other due to overuse, or repetitive work. Ligaments become overstreched, and muscles in the forearm become tight.

3. Trauma: it is often the cause of misalignment of the carpal bones or the attachment of forearm and hands. Falls that involve hyperextension or hyperflexion of the wrist can cause symptoms associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

The medical approach may include a splint, anti-inflammatory drugs, diuretics, and in extreme cases injection of corticosteroids for temporary relief. Surgery is the last resort, and recovery can take months with no guarantee that you have rid yourself of the symptoms.

Chiropractic approach is less invasive, and involves finding the source of symptoms, as well as addressing them. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most commonly misdiagnosed conditions. Nerve entrapments that cause the same symptoms in hands and lower arms can happen in the neck region. Nerves that branch out of the upper part of spine go into arms, hands and fingers; thus involvement of the nerves in the neck is not uncommon. After a complete examination, neurological and orthopedic tests, and x-rays, I can determine the actual cause and place of nerve entrapment, and relieve pressure accordingly. To make your visit wholesome and more effective, I recommend life style and dietary changes, as well as stretches, strengthening exercises, and other physical modalities to be done at home.

Chiropractic approach, is a complete and excellent choice for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and should be considered before more invasive treatments. Please call us at 949.922.3465 if you are suffering from symptoms associated with Carpal Tunnel to see if you qualify for a free consultation.