The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist that’s composed of and surrounded by bones and ligaments. The median nerve runs through the carpal tunnel, and when the tissues around the nerve become inflamed or compromised, they can press against it, causing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
Symptoms often occur gradually, showing up in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers.
Common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:
- Tingling or pins and needles
- Numbness
- Burning Weakness in grip
- Difficulty holding objects
- Dropping items unexpectedly
- Radiating pain toward the shoulder
Many experience these symptoms at night, often disrupting sleep.
Without proper treatment, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage, muscle weakness, and loss of hand function, making early intervention key for optimal recovery.
Common Habits That Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Understanding why you have carpal tunnel syndrome will define your treatment and help you prevent future flare-ups.
Habits, lifestyles, and events that may generate carpal tunnel syndrome include:
- Repetitive hand motions are the primary culprit, particularly if you engage in activities that involve prolonged flexing or extending of the wrists
- Computer work, especially typing with improper wrist positioning, creates sustained pressure on the median nerve
- Certain occupations, such as assembly line work, sewing, playing musical instruments, and jobs that require using vibrating tools, can also contribute to the development of CTS
- Poor ergonomics play a significant role in carpal tunnel development
- Working with your wrists bent upward or downward for extended periods increases pressure within the carpal tunnel
- Sleeping with bent wrists, gripping tools too tightly, and maintaining static hand positions for long durations all contribute to nerve compression
Medical conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders, and pregnancy can also increase your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome due to inflammation and fluid retention.
8 Tips to Help You Avoid Getting Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
1. Maintain Neutral Wrist Position
Keep your wrists straight while typing, writing, or performing repetitive tasks to prevent strain. Your hands should be in line with your forearms.
2. Take Regular Breaks
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and perform 20 wrist circles or stretches.
3. Use Proper Ergonomics
Position your keyboard and mouse at elbow height, use a wrist rest, and ensure your monitor is at eye level.
4. Reduce Grip Force
Avoid gripping tools, pens, or your mouse too tightly. Use tools with larger handles when possible.
5. Keep Hands Warm
Cold conditions can increase stiffness and reduce blood flow. Wear gloves or keep your workspace warm.
6. Perform Regular Stretches
Incorporate wrist flexor and extensor stretches, prayer stretches, and tendon glides into your daily routine to promote wrist health.
7. Maintain Overall Health
Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and staying hydrated support tissue health and reduce inflammation.
8. Sleep with Straight Wrists
Avoid sleeping with your hands on your chest or with bent wrists. Consider using wrist splints at night if needed.
8 Natural Tips to Manage the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
1. Apply Ice Therapy
Use ice packs for 10-15 minutes, several times a day, to reduce inflammation and numb pain.
2. Perform Nerve Gliding Exercises
Gentle exercises that move the median nerve can prevent adhesions and improve mobility.
3. Use Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Incorporate turmeric, ginger, omega-3-rich fish, and leafy greens to naturally reduce inflammation.
4. Practice Yoga
Specific yoga poses can enhance wrist strength, flexibility, and circulation, while also reducing symptoms.
5. Wear Wrist Splints
Nighttime splinting keeps wrists in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve during sleep.
6. Apply Heat Before Activity
Gentle heat application before work can improve blood flow and tissue flexibility.
7. Modify Activities
Alternate between tasks, utilize voice recognition software, and adjust tools to minimize repetitive wrist stress.
8. Get Adequate Sleep Quality
Sleep supports tissue repair and helps reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Advanced Chiropractic Methods for Carpal Tunnel Treatment
Chiropractic treatments are a proven, natural, and safe way to find function and comfort when suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome. Using an array of effective techniques, your chiropractor will create a strategy for lasting relief.
Active Release Technique (ART)
Active Release Technique (ART) specifically targets soft tissue adhesions and scar tissue that contribute to nerve compression. This technique combines precise tension with specific patient movements to break up adhesions and restore normal tissue function.
Graston Technique
Using specialized stainless steel instruments, the Graston Technique effectively breaks down fascial restrictions and promotes tissue remodeling. This approach improves blood flow and accelerates healing in the affected tissues.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Spinal and extremity chiropractic adjustments address joint restrictions in the neck, shoulder, elbow, and wrist that can contribute to carpal tunnel symptoms. Proper joint alignment optimizes nerve function and reduces compensatory patterns.
Massage Therapy
Therapeutic massage improves circulation, reduces muscle tension, and promotes lymphatic drainage. Specific techniques target the forearm muscles and help maintain tissue flexibility.
Performance and Wellness Care
Comprehensive performance and wellness care includes movement analysis, ergonomic assessments, and personalized exercise programs designed to address underlying dysfunction and prevent recurrence.
Shockwave Therapy
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy stimulates cellular repair mechanisms, increases blood flow, and promotes tissue regeneration. This painless and noninvasive treatment can significantly reduce pain and improve function.
Laser Therapy
Low-level laser therapy reduces inflammation, accelerates tissue repair, and provides pain relief at the cellular level. This treatment penetrates deep into tissues without adverse side effects.
Sports Rehabilitation
Targeted sports rehabilitation programs address strength imbalances, improve coordination, and restore optimal movement patterns, which are essential for long-term recovery and prevention.
Partner with Our Boca Raton Sports Chiropractic Clinic for Optimal Results
Our local sports chiropractor specializes in comprehensive carpal tunnel syndrome treatment using sustainable techniques and personalized care approaches. We understand that each patient's condition is unique to them, and we offer individualized treatment plans that address both the symptoms and the cause.
Our experienced team combines advanced diagnostic techniques with proven treatment methods to deliver exceptional results. We focus on restoring proper function, eliminating pain, and preventing future episodes through education and ongoing wellness care.
Contact our Boca Raton chiropractor with any questions you have or book your appointment online today. It’s time to move pain-free, without limitations, again.
