Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Specialist
Carpal tunnel syndrome, also known as median nerve compression syndrome, is a frequently observed entrapment neuropathy. The carpal tunnel is a slender passageway in the wrist joint surrounded by various bones and ligaments. The median nerve, which controls the movement and feeling in your thumb and fingers, runs through the arm’s length and tunnel.
Dr. Jerry Weider, DC, evaluates where along the pathway the nerve may be affected, including the wrist, forearm, elbow, or cervical spine. In many cases, symptoms are not limited to the wrist alone.Your first visit includes a detailed evaluation. Treatment is based on examination findings and directed toward reducing pressure on the nerve and improving function.
Call (206) 783-6000 to schedule an appointment.
Symptoms Of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Patients with carpal tunnel syndrome present a wide array of symptoms that may disappear with time. If you don’t seek treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome on time, the symptoms may reappear and persist longer. The common carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms include:
- A weakness of hand muscles with limited movements and coordination
- Stabbing sensations in the fingers
- Pain and tingling sensation radiating to the tips of your fingers
- Radiating pain towards the shoulder and forearm
- Slower nerve impulses and numbness in the hand
- Loss of gripping movements and coordination
Causes Of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Various factors lead to carpal tunnel, including your wrist anatomy. Irritation or compression of the median nerve is the primary cause of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Here are the common carpal tunnel causes:
- Swollen carpal tunnel space
- Pressure on your median nerve
- Medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, diabetes, and hypothyroidism
- Repetitive wrist movements like typing involving extreme flexion or extension
- HeredityÂ
Carpal Tunnel Treatment
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes severe pain and discomfort. However, most patients rely on traditional home remedies to alleviate pain. These include immersing the wrist in warm water or placing an ice pad over it and taking frequent short breaks to rest the hands.
Your care plan may include:
- Gentle wrist and joint adjustments when appropriate
- Soft tissue support for the forearm and hand
- Deep friction massages
- Movement and activity modification
- Stretching and strengthening recommendations
Book An Appointment
Request an appointment online by calling us at (206) 783-6000
You can also use the online booking tool below for an appointment.
How Do We Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Frequently Asked Questions About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Are Seattle Chiropractors good for carpal tunnel?
Yes. Seattle, WA chiropractors are well-known carpal tunnel specialists. Our chiropractors have experience treating patients with carpal tunnel syndrome and use targeted techniques to help manage symptoms and support long-term recovery. Treatment is tailored to your specific condition and medical history.
Is carpal tunnel considered nerve damage?
No, carpal syndrome doesn’t mean nerve damage. It results from the squeezing or compression of the median nerve. However, ignoring carpal tunnel syndrome and delaying treatment may lead to irreversible nerve damage.
Can you fix carpal tunnel without surgery?
Yes, you can fix carpal tunnel through natural and non-surgical procedures during its early phase. Deep friction massage and nerve gliding exercises help in reducing pain. However, if the condition becomes chronic and complicated, you will have to undergo surgical treatment procedures. So, you shouldn’t leave your carpal syndrome untreated even if the symptoms disappear in the beginning.
What can be mistaken for carpal tunnel?
Carpal tunnel shares many common symptoms with certain other diseases affecting the joints. It is often misdiagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis, wrist tendonitis, and thoracic outlet syndrome. Therefore, it is essential to consult an experienced chiropractor and have a proper diagnosis to avoid further complexities.
How do I know if it’s carpal tunnel or arthritis?
Although carpal tunnel and arthritis share many symptoms, they develop due to entirely different reasons. In arthritis, inflammation of the wrist joint results in excruciating pain. In contrast, carpal syndrome occurs due to the median nerve’s compression and produces tingling sensations in the fingers.
What are the warning signs of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Some of the most common warning signs of carpal syndrome are numbness and clumsiness in the hand. Your grip weakens, and you may have difficulty holding things. You may also be unable to button or unbutton your shirt. Shock-like waves may creep through your forearm towards your shoulder.
Does Medical Insurance Cover Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Almost all basic insurance schemes cover the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. However, you may not receive total compensation if you require surgery. For further clarification, you can contact your carpal tunnel specialist who will let you know whether your insurance plan covers chiropractic care for a carpal tunnel condition or not.
How long does carpal tunnel usually last?
Symptoms of carpal tunnel usually last for a couple of months if you start the treatment at the onset of the condition. If left untreated, severe pinching of the median nerve can lead to weakness of the hand muscles. In this case, symptoms may last for six months or longer.
