Carpal Tunnel

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Every day, assembly line workers, office workers, keyboard operators, grocery store clerks, and many others, receive micro-traumas to their hands and wrists. Vibration and repetitive motions, when combined with spinal problems and other joint dysfunction, can result in a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms may include pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or a loss of strength in the hands.

Chiropractors are experts in the care of the bones, nerves, muscles and connective tissues that make up about 60% of your body. All of the joints in your body are part of this musculo-skeletal system and its optimal function is necessary for overall good health.

Chiropractic Care Can Help!

The major nerve controlling the thumb, index, and parts of the middle, and ring finger is called the Median Nerve. Specific tests will be performed to see if spinal nerves are involved. From the tip of your fingers, it travels through the bones in your wrist, past your elbow, up your arm, through your shoulder and neck, and finally to your spinal cord. Problems can develop in one or more of these areas.

If placing your hands back to back produces an increase in numbness, tingling or pain, you could have a carpal tunnel problem. Have someone try to pull your thumb and finger apart. If your fingers seem weak, it could be related to a carpal tunnel problem.

The carpal "tunnel" is formed by bones in the wrist. The median nerve, tendons, and blood vessels pass through this opening. If one or more of the bones forming this tunnel should "collapse", inflammation, nerve pressure, and painful symptoms can result.

The median nerve connects to the spinal cord through openings between several bones in the lower neck. When these spinal bones lose their normal motion or position, they can cause problems in the fingers and wrist.

After a thorough examination, Dr. Austrager will perform specific adjustments where needed, to help normalize structure and reduce nerve irritation. Dr. Austrager uses an instrument called an Activator that adjusts or repositions the bones of the spine, wrists and other extremities without any twisting or cracking. When given time, conservative, chiropractic care has produced excellent results with carpal tunnel problems - without drugs or surgery.  Call the office today for a free consultation 508-620-1585.