Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common nerve disorder of the hands. The majority of cases occur in women between 40 and 55, and 60% of all work injuries are due to CTS.

How can you successfully treat my Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Traditional physicians often use corticosteroids injections, which temporarily relieve pain and swelling, but do not actively treat the problem. Surgery is often recommended in severe cases, but should be a last resort since it can result in scarring and weakening of the ligament, and symptoms may eventually recur. As nervous system experts, we believe in facilitating the body in healing itself through holistic, cutting edge, and non-invasive methods. The Butler Spine Program – which combines several safe, highly advanced treatments – effectively relieves the pain and numbness of carpal tunnel syndrome and helps restore normal use of the wrist and hand.

First, X-ray or electromyography studies allow us to determine the extent of injury and the exact mode of manipulation necessary to alleviate the problem. Adjunct treatment with our LCT 1000 Deep Tissue (Class IV) Laser is the most advanced and effective way to alleviate pain and promote healing for CTS sufferers. Wrist support, even during sleep, is also very helpful in resting the area and relieving symptoms. Patients with CTS are also encouraged to take breaks and vary their activities during the day to avoid overuse of the area, and to wear fingerless gloves to promote warmth and flexibility in the hands and wrists.

What are the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

CTS is numbness, tingling, weakness, and other problems of the hand due to pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. Symptoms include:

• Tingling, pain, or stiffness in the fingers or hand that may extend to the wrist or elbow
• Numbness, usually in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, that is most often noticed upon waking
• Loss of muscle strength in the fingers, hand, or wrist
• Aching pain in the forearm between the elbow and wrist

What causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is located at the base of the palm. It is made up of bones, tendons, and a thick ligament, all of which encircle the median nerve. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when this nerve becomes pinched or inflamed, usually as a result of repetitive motion from typing or any other sustained activity that overuses this area. An injury to the wrist or hand can also result in nerve damage to the carpal tunnel. Common occupations at high risk for CTS are secretaries, carpenters, weightlifters, and meat packers. Young women can also develop CTS during pregnancy because of hormonal effects on ligaments and tendons.