Bryan Douglas DC - Emporia KS - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is becoming more of a problem especially for those whose job requires repetitive movement of the hands and wrists.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The "carpal tunnel" is a structure on the inside of the wrist through which the median nerve and tendons of some of the wrist and finger flexor muscles pass. It is formed by bones of the wrist on three sides covered with a fibrous structure called the flexor retinaculum. The median nerve controls the thumb, index, and parts of the middle and ring fingers, but not the little finger. This is an important fact to keep in mind when determining if the pain and numbness in the hand is caused by CTS.

Do you have it?

Here are some common early warning signs:

Numbing, tingling and burning in thumb and index, middle and ring fingers but not the little finger.
Symptoms first appear or worsen at night.
Relief is achieved by moving the fingers, shaking or rubbing the hands.
Decrease in grip strength.

Since other conditions may mimic CTS, it is important to have the diagnosis made by a qualified practitioner in order to treat your condition properly.

Treatment

Options for treatment would include:

Conservative treatment such as rest, ice and immobilizing with a splint.
Chiropractic treatment to correct misalignment of the wrist bones
Massage therapy on the affected hand and forearm muscles
Vitamin B complex with extra Vitamin B6
Anti-inflammatory drugs
Cortisone injection
Surgery