Sports Chiropractic Care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects athletes and active individuals who rely on repetitive hand and wrist movements. Whether gripping a tennis racket, weightlifting, or performing precision movements in gymnastics, CTS can hinder performance and cause significant discomfort. Fortunately, sports chiropractic care offers effective, non-invasive solutions to manage and treat this condition.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve—which runs from the forearm into the hand—becomes compressed or irritated as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This compression can cause numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the hand and fingers.
Common symptoms:
- Numbness & tingling over thumb index and middle finger.
- Hand may “fall asleep”
- Loss of grip strength and/or dropping items
- Symptoms occur with activities such as driving, hand tool use, drawing, and typing.
Who Can Be Affected?
CTS is not just a condition for office workers; athletes are also at risk, especially those who engage in sports requiring repetitive wrist flexion, gripping, or high-impact activities. This includes:
- Tennis players
- Golfers
- Weightlifters
- Gymnasts
- Cyclists
How Long Does Carpal Tunnel Last?
The duration of CTS varies based on severity. Mild cases may resolve within a few weeks with proper care, while chronic or untreated cases can last for months or even become permanent without intervention. Early treatment is key to a faster recovery and preventing long-term damage.
How Sports Chiropractic Care Helps Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Chiropractic care addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of CTS by improving nerve function, mobility, and muscle balance. Here’s how:
1. Cervical Adjustments
The median nerve originates in the cervical spine (neck). If there’s misalignment or tension in this area, it can contribute to nerve irritation and exacerbate CTS symptoms. Cervical adjustments help restore proper nerve function, reducing inflammation and improving hand and wrist sensation.
2. Myofascial Release
Tightness in the forearm flexor muscles can worsen median nerve compression. Myofascial release techniques target these muscles, relieving tension, improving blood flow, and reducing pressure on the nerve.
3. Nerve Flossing Techniques
Nerve flossing, also called nerve gliding, involves gentle exercises that help mobilize the median nerve and reduce irritation. These techniques encourage the nerve to move freely within the carpal tunnel, reducing pain and restoring function.
4. Wrist & Forearm Mobilization
Chiropractic adjustments and mobilization techniques improve joint function in the wrist and forearm, reducing stiffness and allowing for better movement and nerve conductivity.
5. Postural & Ergonomic Training
Many cases of CTS stem from poor wrist mechanics and repetitive strain. Chiropractors assess athletic posture and movement patterns, offering corrections and ergonomic advice to prevent re-injury and enhance performance.
6. Class IV Laser Therapy
Carpal tunnel syndrome has been shown to greatly reduce symptoms after a trail of care with class IV laser. Pairing laser therapy with additional tools to further reduce pain and improve function to prevent re-injury and enhance performance.
Get Relief from Carpal Tunnel with Sports Chiropractic Care
If you or an athlete you know is experiencing wrist pain, numbness, or weakness, sports chiropractic care can help address the root cause and restore peak performance without surgery or medications.
Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward pain-free movement!