Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is caused by repetitive motion, such as typing, texting, or performing assembly line work. Over time, such actions may produce pain and injury. Most people with CTS experience tingling or numbness in the fingers or hand or weakness in the hand.
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Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when a nerve in the forearm, called the median nerve, gets compressed and squeezed as it enters into the palm of the hand. The median nerve travels through a narrow passage called the “carpal tunnel”, which is where the compression occurs—hence the name, carpal tunnel syndrome.

To understand the symptoms of CTS, you should know the function of the median nerve. This nerve provides sensation and motor (movement) function to the forearm and part of the hand. With CTS, the symptoms include weakness of the thumb, index and middle finger, pain in the hand, tingling or numbing sensation.

In some cases, a condition called Pronator Teres Syndrome (PTS) closely mimics CTS. In PTS, the median nerve is compressed by the elbow, which results in symptoms that are very similar to CTS. Getting the correct diagnosis is crucial for your success!

Our Natural Approach

Our Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation chiropractors and physiotherapists are well-equipped to address and manage CTS and PTS. Proper diagnosis is paramount! Knowing where the nerve is entrapped is the key to managing either condition. We will often use soft tissue / fascial therapy, electroacupuncture, exercises, and sometimes wrist braces to manage either condition.

In complicated cases, our medical team can refer for nerve conduction studies or MRIs to better evaluate the condition, and we may potentially refer for surgery if needed.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Alta Vista, Ottawa ON | (613) 728-9414