Carpal tunnel syndrome affects 3 to 6% of the adult population in the U.S. It is the most common entrapment neuropathy which has symptoms of pain, numbness and tingling, and even loss of grip strength in the hand and fingers. Symptoms are common at night.

The nerve involved is the median nerve. This nerve is comprised of fibers that originate from the neck and then join together and run down the arm, forearm, wrist, and finally into the hand. At the wrist, the median nerve runs through a “tunnel” to get to the hand and fingers. It is similar to water running through a hose. This tunnel is made up of a ligament at the top and the wrist bones along the bottom. It is here where the problem exists.

Simply put, there are only two causes of carpal tunnel syndrome:

1. The “stuff” inside the tunnel is getting too big.
2. The tunnel is getting too small.

Most of the time it is the latter. Things like trauma and repetitive motions (computer use, musicians, etc.) can collapse the carpal tunnel and cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Just like stepping on the hose and stopping the flow of water.

In addition to adjusting your spine, we can also adjust the bones in your wrist that may be causing the compression and leading to your carpal tunnel syndrome.

Massaging your hand, wrist and forearm may also help.