Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Lake Wylie, SC
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in your hand and wrist, making everyday tasks like typing, gripping, and sleeping more difficult. At Lake Wylie Wellness & Chiropractic Center, Dr. David Redding provides non-surgical care that addresses the source of nerve compression to help patients in Lake Wylie, SC regain comfort and function.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a problem with the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway at the wrist made up of bones, ligaments, and soft tissue, with the median nerve and several tendons passing through it. When swelling or excessive pressure builds inside this tunnel, the median nerve becomes compressed, causing symptoms in the hand and wrist that may radiate into the forearm.
Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger
- Hand and wrist pain that may travel into the forearm
- Weak grip or dropping objects
- Symptoms that worsen at night or wake you from sleep
- A feeling of swelling in the fingers without visible swelling
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Repetitive hand and wrist motions such as typing, assembly work, or using tools
- Poor wrist positioning at a desk or workstation
- Wrist injuries or fractures
- Pregnancy-related fluid retention
- Conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and thyroid disorders
- Nerve irritation higher up in the neck, elbow, or forearm
Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome should be diagnosed and treated early. During your consultation, you’ll receive a physical examination of your hands, arms, shoulders, and neck to determine whether your symptoms are related to daily activities or an underlying disorder. Dr. Redding also uses orthopedic tests designed to reproduce carpal tunnel symptoms. When needed, lab tests and X-rays can help rule out diabetes, arthritis, fractures, and other common causes of wrist and hand pain.
Because nerves travel from the neck through the shoulder and arm, problems along that path can mimic or worsen carpal tunnel symptoms. Checking the entire nerve pathway helps us find the true source of your pain.
How We Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Chiropractic adjustments: Gentle adjustments of the wrist, elbow, and neck to restore motion and reduce nerve pressure.
- MLS laser therapy: Reduces inflammation and swelling around the median nerve.
- Soft tissue therapy and dry needling: Releases tight forearm muscles that add strain to the wrist.
- Exercises and ergonomic advice: Stretches, strengthening, and workstation changes to prevent symptoms from returning.
Pregnant and noticing wrist tingling? Our prenatal chiropractic care can help. See all conditions we treat.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome FAQs
Can a chiropractor help carpal tunnel syndrome?
Yes. Chiropractic care can reduce pressure on the median nerve through adjustments, soft tissue work, laser therapy, and ergonomic changes.
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
CTS occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, often due to repetitive motions, poor wrist posture, injury, or swelling.
Why are my carpal tunnel symptoms worse at night?
Many people sleep with their wrists bent, which increases pressure in the carpal tunnel and can trigger numbness and tingling.
Can neck problems cause hand numbness?
Yes. Nerve irritation in the neck can cause numbness and tingling in the hand, which is why we evaluate the entire nerve pathway.
Do I need surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Many mild to moderate cases improve with conservative care. Severe or long-standing cases may require referral to a specialist.
How long does carpal tunnel treatment take?
Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks, though recovery depends on how long symptoms have been present.
Can I prevent carpal tunnel syndrome?
Taking breaks, keeping your wrists neutral while typing, stretching, and improving your workstation setup can all help.
Find Relief From Wrist and Hand Pain
Don’t wait for numbness and weakness to get worse. Call Lake Wylie Wellness & Chiropractic Center at (803) 701-7077 or request your appointment online.