Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Sandy, Utah
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed at the wrist as it passes through a narrow space on the palm side of the hand. This area is made up of bones and ligaments. The median nerve travels from the neck, through the shoulder and arm, and into the hand, where it affects sensation and movement in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger.
At Alta Mountain Chiropractic in Sandy, Utah, we evaluate carpal tunnel syndrome as part of a broader assessment of nerve irritation and musculoskeletal function in the neck, shoulder, arm, and wrist.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Patients with carpal tunnel syndrome may experience:
- Tingling or “pins and needles” in the fingers
- Numbness, burning, or pain that is often worse at night
- Weak grip strength or difficulty holding objects
- Swelling or a “full” feeling in the fingers
- Electric shock-like sensations in the hand or fingers
- Increased symptoms while driving, holding a phone, or reading
As compression continues, nerve signals may slow down. This can lead to decreased sensation, reduced hand strength, and difficulty with fine motor tasks.
Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome can develop from multiple contributing factors, including:
- Repetitive hand and wrist movements (typing or assembly work)
- Repetitive gripping activities (sports or job-related tasks)
- Arthritis and other joint conditions
- Hormonal and metabolic changes (including pregnancy, diabetes, or thyroid imbalance)
- Wrist injuries such as sprains, fractures, or inflammation
- Family history of carpal tunnel syndrome
- Smaller carpal tunnel anatomy (more common in women)
- Possible B vitamin deficiency, including B6 insufficiency in some cases
Prevention Strategies for Wrist and Nerve Health
Patients can often reduce strain on the median nerve by making ergonomic and lifestyle adjustments:
- Reduce forceful gripping during daily activities
- Type with light pressure and keep wrists in a neutral position
- Position keyboard and mouse at elbow height or slightly below
- Take frequent short breaks from repetitive tasks
- Keep hands warm when possible
- Stretch and massage the hands, wrists, forearms, and shoulders
- Improve posture to reduce shoulder and neck tension that may contribute to nerve compression
Forward head posture and rounded shoulders can increase tension in the neck and upper extremities, which may contribute to wrist and hand symptoms.
Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Treatment focuses on reducing nerve compression, improving mobility, and addressing underlying causes:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice during acute inflammation and heat in later stages
- Massage therapy to the neck, shoulders, arms, and wrists
- Wrist splinting, especially at night, to reduce nerve pressure
- Chiropractic adjustments to the wrist, elbow, shoulder, and cervical spine
- Stretching and nerve gliding exercises
- Short-term use of anti-inflammatory medications when appropriate
- Corticosteroid injections in select cases (used sparingly due to tissue risks)
- Homeopathic injections for inflammation and pain support without connective tissue damage
- Prolozone therapy to support oxygenation, inflammation reduction, and tissue healing
- Nutritional evaluation, including possible B vitamin testing when indicated
In severe or long-standing cases, surgery may be considered to relieve pressure on the median nerve. However, surgery carries risks such as scar formation, incomplete release, infection, or persistent symptoms.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Care in Sandy, Utah
At Alta Mountain Chiropractic in Sandy, Utah, Dr. Nathan Eldredge evaluates carpal tunnel syndrome by assessing nerve function, posture, and joint mechanics from the neck down to the wrist. Care may include chiropractic adjustments, rehabilitation exercises, nutritional evaluation, lab testing when appropriate, and regenerative injection therapies.
If you are experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome in Sandy, Utah, contact Alta Mountain Chiropractic at (801) 523-2582 to schedule an evaluation and discuss treatment options.
