Conditions We Treat

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Expert chiropractic care for carpal tunnel syndrome at Sycamore Chiropractic in Laguna Hills, CA.

Understanding Your Condition

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel — a narrow passageway in the wrist formed by bones and ligaments. The condition causes pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, primarily affecting the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. CTS is common in people who perform repetitive hand and wrist motions (typing, assembly work, cooking) and can be worsened by wrist inflammation, fluid retention, or conditions like diabetes and thyroid disorders. Importantly, nerve compression in the cervical spine can produce identical symptoms — a condition called 'double crush syndrome.' Dr. Petersen evaluates both the wrist and the cervical spine to ensure every source of nerve compression is identified and treated.

Signs to Watch For

Common Symptoms

Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers
Pain in the wrist that radiates into the hand or up the forearm
Weakness in the hand, especially when gripping or pinching
Dropping objects due to loss of grip strength
Symptoms that worsen at night or wake you from sleep
Burning or aching sensation in the palm
Shaking or flicking the hands to relieve symptoms (flick sign)

Drug-Free Relief

How Chiropractic Helps

Chiropractic wrist adjustments restore proper alignment of the carpal bones, opening the tunnel and reducing pressure on the median nerve. Dr. Petersen also assesses and adjusts the elbow and shoulder, as nerve entrapment can occur at multiple points along the median nerve's path. Cervical spine adjustments address any contributing neck involvement, particularly at C5-C7 where the nerve roots that form the median nerve originate.

Soft-tissue therapy targets the flexor retinaculum (the ligament forming the roof of the carpal tunnel) and the forearm flexor muscles, reducing tension that compresses the tunnel. Nerve-gliding exercises — specific movements that help the median nerve slide freely through its anatomical channels — are prescribed for daily home practice. Wrist splinting recommendations (especially for nighttime use) and ergonomic modifications for keyboard and mouse use round out the treatment plan.

Your Path to Recovery

Our Treatment Approach

Evaluation includes Phalen's test, Tinel's sign, carpal compression test, and grip-strength measurement to confirm CTS. Cervical spine examination rules out or identifies concurrent neck involvement. Nerve conduction studies may be recommended for severe or atypical cases. Treatment is typically scheduled two to three times per week for four to six weeks. Most patients experience significant symptom reduction, and many avoid the carpal tunnel release surgery that might otherwise be recommended.

Treatments We Use

Related Services

Chiropractic Adjustments

Cold Laser Therapy

Corrective Exercises

Common Questions

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome FAQ

In many cases, yes. Conservative treatment with chiropractic adjustments, nerve-gliding exercises, and wrist splinting resolves symptoms for a significant number of CTS patients. Surgery is typically recommended only when conservative care fails after several weeks or when nerve conduction studies show severe compression.

During sleep, many people flex their wrists, which narrows the carpal tunnel and increases pressure on the median nerve. Fluid redistribution when lying down also contributes to swelling in the wrist. Wearing a neutral-position wrist splint at night often provides significant nighttime relief.

No. While repetitive keyboard use is a common contributor, any repetitive hand and wrist activity can cause or worsen CTS — including assembly work, cooking, gardening, and playing musical instruments. Pregnancy, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and wrist fractures also increase risk.

Yes. Cervical nerve root compression at C6 or C7 can produce numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand that closely mimics carpal tunnel syndrome. This is called double crush syndrome when both the neck and wrist are involved. Dr. Petersen evaluates the entire nerve pathway to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Research supports nerve-gliding (or nerve-flossing) exercises as an effective component of CTS treatment. These gentle movements help the median nerve move freely through the carpal tunnel and surrounding tissues, reducing adhesions and improving nerve function. Best results come from combining them with chiropractic care.

Ready to Find Relief?

Don't let carpal tunnel syndrome hold you back. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Petersen and take the first step toward lasting relief.

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