In today’s computer-driven, texting and smart phone-dependent world, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is commonly the diagnosis given to people who have hand pain, numbness and/or tingling. While the CTS incidence rate is increasing, it is necessary for patients to make sure that it truly is CTS causing the symptoms and not a problem elsewhere in the body.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by excessive pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. The symptoms of CTS can be mimicked by pressure on nerves in the neck, upper chest, armpit or anywhere along the arm. Excess pressure in these other areas can be caused by arthritis, stenosis, tight muscles, scar tissue from previous injuries, skeletal injuries/anomalies, swelling, trauma, etc. Thus, it is vital to determine the true cause and location of the problem before voluntarily having CTS surgery for a “wrist problem” that could actually be a problem in your neck or elsewhere!
These symptoms often lessen or disappear completely with conservative care; massage, acupuncture and chiropractic. Call 503-235-7130 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hartwig and start feeling better!