Throughout my twenties, I struggled with debilitating wrist pain that often kept me up at night. I wore braces to alleviate the burning pain and numbness that plagued my hands, symptoms all too familiar to anyone suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). This condition isn’t just discomfort—it’s a mixed bag of pain, numbness, and burning sensations that can make everyday tasks increasingly difficult.
The carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist, houses the median nerve, responsible for transmitting sensations and controlling movement in parts of the hand and forearm. When this tunnel narrows and compresses the nerve, the result is CTS. Traditionally, surgery involves cutting a ligament in the wrist to relieve pressure on the nerve, but for many, like my father who underwent multiple surgeries with diminishing results, this route didn’t promise lasting relief.
In my case and that of many patients I’ve treated, the problem wasn’t solely at the wrist level. Instead, a misalignment in the upper cervical spine—specifically the top two vertebrae—was compressing the median nerve where it branches off from the brain stem. This compression mimicked CTS symptoms, pointing to a different root cause entirely than what surgery would address.
The median nerve originates in the upper cervical area of the neck before extending down the arm, making it susceptible to compression at multiple points along its path. This explains why some patients still experience symptoms post-wrist surgery—known as double crush syndrome—where compression in both the wrist and neck exacerbates the issue.
Fortunately, addressing the cervical spine alignment proved to be the solution for me. Once the misalignment was corrected and pressure on the nerve was relieved, my symptoms drastically improved. It’s been over a decade since I relied on wrist braces, a testament to the effectiveness of addressing the root cause rather than simply treating symptoms at the wrist.
I advocate for a thorough examination of the cervical spine before opting for surgery. Ensuring that surgery addresses the true cause of the symptoms can prevent unnecessary procedures and potential complications. Starting with the least invasive approach makes sense, and it’s a philosophy that resonates with many who seek relief from CTS and similar conditions.
At Upper Cervical Health Centers of Fort Myers, we offer complimentary screenings to determine if cervical compression contributes to your CTS symptoms. Take the first step towards understanding your condition and finding relief—schedule your free consultation today at 239-243-8810.
Don’t let Carpal Tunnel Syndrome dictate your quality of life. Explore non-invasive alternatives that address the underlying cause and pave the way for long-term relief and improved well-being. The positive effects of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Treatment extend beyond conventional approaches, addressing the root cause of pain in the upper cervical spine. If you’re embarking on a journey toward lasting relief and holistic well-being, consider exploring the transformative benefits of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Treatment with Dr. Lee Angle at Upper Cervical Health Centers. Your quest for aligning wellness and relieving pain begins here.
