Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a fairly common condition that occurs when there is too much pressure on a nerve in the wrist. There is usually aching, numbness or tingling in the thumb, some of the fingers and sometimes part of the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome affects about 1 in 100 people at some point in their life. Men and women of any age can develop it, but it is most common in women in their 30s, 40s and 50s. Sometimes carpal tunnel syndrome is triggered by a person’s occupation, and can lead to the person being unable to work. Most cases of carpal tunnel syndrome can be prevented by stopping or reducing the activity that stresses the fingers, hand, or wrist, or by changing the way in which activities are done. The carpal tunnel is a channel in the palm side of the wrist (see diagram, right). The bones of the wrist are arranged in a semi-circle, and a tough ligament (the carpal ligament) forms a roof over them, creating a passageway (the carpal tunnel). Running through the carpal tunnel are the tendons that we use to bend the fingers and wrist, and the median nerve. This is one of two nerves that allow feeling in the hand. The median nerve also controls some of the muscles that move the thumb.

Chiropractic Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Dr Pozhitsky's chiropractic treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome at the Chiropratic Care Center in San Diego  is conservative. When caught early enough, conservative care like chiropractic can prevent your condition from becoming surgical. Dr. Pozhitsky will use nerve, muscle, and orthopedic tests to diagnose your carpal tunnel condition and the extent of damage. If needed, he will refer you to an orthopedist or neurologist. Conservative treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome may consist of traction, mobilization, manipulation, ultrasound treatments and some at home exercises and stretching. Early detection of carpal tunnel syndrome and treatment are the best solutions to relieving pain and restoring normal usage of your hands and fingers.