Hand, wrist, and forearm pain are increasingly common in today’s world where typing, texting, and repetitive tasks dominate our work and personal lives. If you’re experiencing tingling, numbness, weakness, or pain in your hands, you might be dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) or repetitive strain injuries (RSI).
What’s often overlooked is how chiropractic care can offer a drug-free, non-invasive solution to these issues. This guide dives deep into how chiropractic carpal tunnel treatment works, who it benefits, and what results you can expect.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel—a narrow passageway in the wrist made up of bones and ligaments.
Key Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Tingling or numbness, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
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Weakness in the hand and difficulty gripping objects
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Pain that may extend from the wrist up the arm
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Symptoms that worsen with repetitive hand use, particularly typing or phone use
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Waking up at night due to hand discomfort or numbness
Without proper treatment, carpal tunnel syndrome can progress and cause permanent nerve damage, affecting hand strength and coordination.
What Are Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI)?
RSIs are overuse injuries caused by repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, vibrations, mechanical compression, or sustained awkward positions. Carpal tunnel is just one form of RSI.
Common Types of RSI Affecting the Upper Extremity
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Tendinitis: Inflammation of tendons in the wrist or forearm
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Tennis Elbow: Lateral epicondylitis caused by repetitive arm movements
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De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: Inflammation of tendons on the thumb side of the wrist
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Trigger Finger: A condition where a finger locks or catches when bent
These injuries can be debilitating, especially for individuals with jobs or hobbies requiring repetitive hand motions.
Why Traditional Treatments Fall Short
Many conventional approaches for carpal tunnel and RSI management focus on masking symptoms rather than addressing the root cause. Common treatments include:
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Wrist splints: Limit movement but don’t resolve underlying misalignments
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NSAIDs: Temporary pain relief with potential long-term side effects
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Corticosteroid injections: Reduce inflammation but don’t address nerve pressure
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Surgery: Invasive, with risks and recovery time, often considered a last resort
While these methods can provide temporary relief, they often don’t correct the biomechanical and neurological dysfunctions contributing to the condition. That’s where chiropractic carpal tunnel treatment offers a different perspective.
How Chiropractic Carpal Tunnel Treatment Works
Chiropractic care addresses carpal tunnel syndrome and RSI by correcting misalignments and optimizing nerve function. Here’s how:
1. Wrist and Hand Joint Adjustments
Chiropractors perform precise, gentle adjustments to the wrist, hand, and elbow to restore alignment and mobility. This can alleviate pressure on the median nerve and surrounding tissues, allowing better nerve flow and reducing inflammation.
2. Cervical Spine Adjustments
The nerves in your hands and wrists originate from the cervical spine (neck). If vertebrae in the cervical region are misaligned, they can contribute to nerve irritation or compression. Chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine can improve nerve function all the way down to the wrist.
3. Soft Tissue Therapy
Muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the forearm and hand are often tight or inflamed due to repetitive strain. Chiropractors use soft tissue therapies like myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and stretching techniques to improve flexibility and blood flow.
4. Ergonomic and Posture Correction
Repetitive strain injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome are often exacerbated by poor posture and ergonomics. Chiropractors provide education on proper workstation setup, hand positioning, and posture to minimize future strain.
5. Nerve Flow Optimization
Spinal adjustments restore proper alignment and reduce interference in the nervous system. By improving nerve conductivity, the body can heal more efficiently, and symptoms can diminish.
Benefits of Chiropractic Carpal Tunnel Treatment
Choosing chiropractic care for your carpal tunnel syndrome and RSI offers several benefits:
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Non-invasive and drug-free: No need for surgery or medications
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Addresses root causes: Corrects biomechanical dysfunctions, not just symptoms
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Enhances nerve communication: Promotes natural healing
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Improves range of motion: Restores proper joint movement
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Reduces inflammation: Soft tissue therapies and adjustments help decrease swelling
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Personalized care: Each patient’s treatment is tailored to their specific condition and lifestyle
What to Expect During Chiropractic Treatment
When you visit a chiropractor for carpal tunnel or RSI symptoms, your first appointment will include:
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Health history review: Understanding the origin of your symptoms
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Physical examination: Assessing wrist, hand, elbow, shoulder, and cervical spine function
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Neurological evaluation: Checking for nerve irritation or compression
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X-rays or imaging (if necessary): To assess alignment or rule out other issues
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Personalized treatment plan: A combination of adjustments, therapies, and ergonomic guidance
Most patients require a series of visits to achieve optimal results. The frequency and duration of care depend on the severity and duration of the symptoms.
Who Can Benefit From Chiropractic Carpal Tunnel Treatment?
Chiropractic carpal tunnel treatment is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:
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Office workers: Hours of typing and mouse use strain the wrists
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Musicians: Repetitive playing of instruments stresses the hands and arms
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Athletes: Sports like tennis, golf, and weightlifting involve repetitive wrist and arm motions
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Drivers: Long hours gripping a steering wheel can lead to strain
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Healthcare professionals: Repetitive hand movements during patient care
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Crafters and artisans: Sewing, knitting, painting, or woodworking
Anyone experiencing hand, wrist, or arm discomfort from repetitive motions can benefit from chiropractic evaluation and care.
Chiropractic Carpal Tunnel Treatment vs. Surgery
Many individuals with CTS are told that surgery is their only option. While surgery can relieve symptoms for some, it also carries risks such as:
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Infection
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Nerve damage
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Long recovery times
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Incomplete relief or recurrence of symptoms
In contrast, chiropractic carpal tunnel treatment is non-invasive and low-risk. It aims to improve function naturally, without the need for surgical intervention. For many patients, chiropractic care can delay or eliminate the need for surgery altogether.
Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and RSI
Prevention is a key part of the chiropractic approach. Your chiropractor can guide you through strategies to avoid recurrence, such as:
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Proper Ergonomics: Position keyboards, mice, and screens at appropriate heights
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Stretching Exercises: Keep wrists and hands flexible
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Posture Correction: Avoid slouching and maintain neutral wrist positions
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Frequent Breaks: Step away from repetitive tasks to give your hands a rest
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Strengthening Exercises: Build resilience in hand and forearm muscles
Small daily adjustments can make a significant difference in preventing repetitive strain injuries.
Patient Testimonials: Real Results
Many patients who undergo chiropractic carpal tunnel treatment report improvements such as:
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Decreased hand and wrist pain
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Improved grip strength
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Less frequent numbness and tingling
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Better posture and reduced overall body tension
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Enhanced productivity and quality of life
Chiropractic care focuses not only on symptom relief but also on whole-body wellness, which is why many patients experience improvements beyond just their wrists and hands.
Experience Personalized Care at Chiropractic Healing Team
At Chiropractic Healing Team in Woodland Hills, Dr. Douglas Gordon provides expert care tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re struggling with new wrist discomfort or have been dealing with chronic repetitive strain issues, chiropractic carpal tunnel treatment could be the answer you’ve been looking for.
Dr. Gordon uses advanced chiropractic techniques, soft tissue therapies, and ergonomic coaching to help patients reduce symptoms, restore function, and prevent future injuries.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you’re tired of living with wrist pain, numbness, or hand discomfort, it’s time to explore a solution that addresses the root cause.
📍 20700 Ventura Blvd Suite 130, Woodland Hills, CA
🌐 chiropractichealingteam.com
Take the first step toward relief and improved function with chiropractic carpal tunnel treatment.