Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Lawrence, KS | Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that develops when the median nerve becomes compressed as it travels through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This compression can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and difficulty performing everyday tasks such as typing, gripping objects, or using tools.

At Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic, we provide evidence-based, conservative treatment to help reduce nerve irritation, improve wrist function, and restore your ability to perform daily activities without surgery whenever appropriate.

How We Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Every patient receives an individualized treatment plan based on the severity of their symptoms and the underlying cause of their condition. Treatment may include:

• Extremity chiropractic adjustments to improve wrist, hand, elbow, and upper extremity joint mechanics

• Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve soft tissue mobility throughout the forearm and wrist

• Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) to promote tissue healing and reduce chronic pain in appropriate cases

• Dry needling to address muscle tightness and trigger points contributing to nerve irritation

• Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) to improve tissue mobility and reduce soft tissue restrictions

• Corrective exercises to improve wrist mobility, strength, and nerve mobility

• Personalized home exercise program to support long-term recovery and reduce symptom recurrence

Our goal is to decrease pressure on the median nerve while restoring normal movement and function throughout the entire upper extremity.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Common symptoms include:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers

• Wrist pain

• Hand weakness

• Difficulty gripping or holding objects

• Symptoms that worsen at night

• Burning or aching into the hand or forearm

• Frequent dropping of objects

Early evaluation can help prevent symptoms from progressing and improve treatment outcomes.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when pressure increases within the carpal tunnel, compressing the median nerve. Common contributing factors include:

• Repetitive hand or wrist movements

• Computer or keyboard use

• Repetitive work activities

• Pregnancy

• Diabetes

• Arthritis

• Previous wrist injuries

• Tendon inflammation

In some cases, symptoms may also be influenced by restrictions involving the elbow, shoulder, or cervical spine, making a comprehensive examination essential.

What to Expect During Your First Visit

Your initial evaluation at Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic is designed to identify the source of your symptoms and determine whether conservative chiropractic care is appropriate.

Your visit may include:

• Review of your medical history and symptoms

• Wrist, hand, elbow, shoulder, and cervical spine examination

• Orthopedic and neurological testing

• Grip strength and range of motion assessment

• Functional movement evaluation

• Personalized treatment recommendations

If advanced imaging, nerve conduction studies, or referral to another healthcare provider is appropriate, we will help coordinate your care.

Why Choose Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic?

Our chiropractors take a comprehensive approach to treating carpal tunnel syndrome by addressing the entire upper extremity rather than focusing solely on the wrist. Depending on your condition, treatment may include chiropractic adjustments, manual therapy, Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), dry needling, IASTM, and corrective exercises.

Our treatment plans are designed to:

• Reduce pain and numbness

• Improve wrist and hand function

• Restore normal joint and soft tissue mobility

• Improve grip strength

• Reduce nerve irritation

• Help you avoid unnecessary medications or surgery whenever possible