Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects the hand and wrist, caused by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist. This nerve controls movement and sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring fingers.

When the tunnel becomes inflamed or compressed, it can lead to pain, tingling, and weakness in the hand and wrist—making everyday tasks like typing, writing, or gripping objects uncomfortable or even impossible. Carpal tunnel syndrome often affects individuals who perform repetitive hand or wrist motions, making it a frequent concern for office workers, manual laborers, and those using electronic devices extensively.

At Shaker Spine & Sport Institute, we take a whole-body approach to treating carpal tunnel syndrome, addressing both local inflammation and potential contributing factors further up the kinetic chain, like poor posture (tech neck) or nerve interference in the neck, shoulder, and forearm elbow areas.

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms often start gradually and worsen over time if left untreated. The most common signs include:

• Numbness or tingling: Especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
• Pain in the wrist or hand: Sometimes extending up the arm.
• Weak grip strength: Difficulty holding objects or performing fine motor tasks.
• Burning or aching sensation: Often worsening at night or after repetitive activity.
• Swelling in the wrist or fingers: A feeling of tightness or puffiness.
• Hand fatigue: Increased difficulty with repetitive tasks like typing or writing.
• In some cases, symptoms may also extend into the forearm or shoulder, especially if there’s underlying nerve interference in the cervical spine.

Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when there is increased pressure on the median nerve median nerve as it travels through the wrist. This can be due to repetitive hand and wrist motions, structural issues, or underlying health conditions.

The most common cause is repetitive strain, especially from tasks that involve prolonged typing, texting, using a mouse, or manual labor that requires gripping, lifting, or vibration. Over time, these movements can cause inflammation and swelling in the tendons or tissues inside the carpal tunnel, narrowing the space and compressing the nerve.

However, carpal tunnel is rarely just a “wrist problem.” Poor posture, especially forward head posture and rounded shoulders, can shift the biomechanics of the entire arm, placing more strain on the wrist. Misalignments in the neck or upper back can also interfere with nerve flow, making the median nerve more vulnerable to compression further down the arm.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can result from various factors, including:

• Repetitive motions: Activities like typing, sewing, or assembly-line work.
• Wrist positioning: Prolonged use of improper ergonomics during work or leisure activities.
• Medical conditions: Diabetes, arthritis, hypothyroidism, and other health issues that contribute to nerve compression.
• Injury or trauma: Fractures or sprains that narrow the carpal tunnel.
• Fluid retention: Pregnancy and hormonal changes cause swelling in the wrist.

At Shaker Spine & Sport Institute, located in Tampa, FL, we understand the debilitating impact carpal tunnel syndrome can have on your daily life. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing effective, non-invasive treatment options to help you find relief and regain control of your well-being. Visit our Chiropractic Physicians and they will be able to do a thorough examination and help you develop a treatment plan.

We offer a variety of different treatments to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, such as:

• Chiropractic Adjustments: Manual and gentle vibrating adjustments utilizing Arthostim and Activator devices.
• SoftWave Tissue Regeneration Therapy
• Class IV Laser Therapy
• Soft Tissue / Trigger Point Therapy
• Correction Utilizing the Advanced Foot Levelers: Laser guided posture plate and the use of orthotics.
• Exercise Postural Corrective Advice

With over 35 years of experience serving the South Tampa community, our expert team is dedicated to helping you live pain-free.  Don't let your conditions limit your life - schedule your appointment today to start your recovery!