CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME & CHIROPRACTIC
If you’ve ever experienced numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands and wrists—especially after long hours at a desk—you might be dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). This condition is one of the most common wrist problems and can significantly interfere with work, sleep, and daily activities.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in your wrist that protects the median nerve, which controls sensation and movement in your thumb and first three fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when swelling, tightness, or misalignment causes pressure on this nerve.
Common Causes
• Repetitive strain from typing, computer use, or repetitive hand motions.
• Poor ergonomics – improper desk setup or posture adds stress to the wrists.
• Underlying conditions – arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid imbalances can increase risk.
• Pregnancy or fluid retention – swelling can temporarily compress the median nerve.
Symptoms to Watch For
• Tingling, numbness, or burning in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
• Weakness in grip strength (dropping objects).
• Pain that radiates from the wrist up into the arm.
• Nighttime discomfort that wakes you up or worsens after a day at the computer.
How Chiropractic Care Helps
Chiropractic care offers a natural, non-invasive way to relieve pressure on the median nerve and restore proper function. Treatment may include:
• Wrist and hand adjustments – Gentle adjustments improve joint mobility and alignment in the wrist and hand.
• Spinal and shoulder adjustments – Nerve irritation often begins higher up, so correcting alignment in the neck and shoulders can reduce strain traveling down to the wrist.
• Soft tissue therapy – Releasing tension in the forearm flexors, extensors, and surrounding muscles helps reduce compression on the nerve.
• Ergonomic and posture coaching – Proper desk setup, typing position, and movement habits can prevent flare-ups.
• Targeted exercises – Strengthening weak muscles and stretching tight ones helps maintain balance and long-term relief.
Self-Care Tips for Carpal Tunnel Relief
Alongside professional chiropractic care, here are a few strategies you can try at home:
• Stretch the wrists – Gently extend your wrist back (palm facing up, fingers pointing down) and hold for 15–20 seconds. Repeat a few times daily.
• Take breaks – Every 30–45 minutes at your desk, shake out your hands and stretch your forearms.
• Improve ergonomics – Keep wrists neutral (not bent up or down) when typing, and adjust your chair/keyboard height.
• Apply cold packs – Short intervals of ice can help reduce swelling after repetitive activity.
• Strengthen grip and forearm muscles – Use a soft stress ball or therapy putty to build stability.
Carpal tunnel syndrome doesn’t have to limit your work, sleep, or lifestyle. With chiropractic care and simple self-care strategies, you can reduce pain, improve function, and protect your wrists long-term. If wrist pain, tingling, or numbness has been bothering you, chiropractic care can help you get back to doing the things you love without discomfort.
Any questions? Feel free to reach out to our office via phone or text: (310) 880-9663. Happy healing!
Disclaimer: The information provided on this chiropractic blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Reliance on any information provided by this blog is solely at your own risk.