Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Research

Chiropractic care has been shown to be an effective, non-invasive treatment option for managing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). By addressing spinal misalignments, soft tissue dysfunction, and promoting better wrist mechanics, chiropractic care aims to alleviate the pressure on the median nerve that causes CTS symptoms. Studies have demonstrated that chiropractic treatment, which may include spinal adjustments, ultrasound therapy, and ergonomic support, can significantly reduce pain, improve function, and enhance overall quality of life for individuals with CTS. The following research highlights various approaches and outcomes of chiropractic care in treating CTS.

Conservative Chiropractic Care of Cervicobrachialgia: Case Study Summary

This case study followed a 42-year-old woman diagnosed with cervicobrachialgia, a condition that causes neck and arm pain, often described as sharp, stabbing, or aching. The symptoms began after a fall while skiing. X-rays revealed a displacement of the atlas vertebra (C1), laterally to the right and anteriorly rotated.

The patient received upper cervical chiropractic adjustments, with the first adjustment providing immediate relief from symptoms. A second adjustment was given 48 hours later, and after a third visit, no further adjustments were necessary. The patient showed significant improvement, and no subsequent adjustments were required.

Source: Glick DM. Conservative chiropractic care of cervicobrachialgia. Chiropr Res J. 1989;1(3):49-52.

Comparative Efficacy of Conservative Medical and Chiropractic Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Case Study Summary

This randomized clinical trial compared the effectiveness of chiropractic care versus medical treatment in reducing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Chiropractic care involved spinal adjustments, ultrasound therapy over the carpal tunnel, and the use of nighttime wrist supports.

The study found that chiropractic care was as effective as medical treatments in alleviating CTS symptoms. Both treatment methods resulted in significant symptom reduction for participants.

Source: Davis PT, Hulbert JR, Kassak KM, et al. Comparative efficacy of conservative medical and chiropractic treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome: a randomized clinical trial. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 1998;21(5):317-326.

Double Crush Syndrome: Case Study Summary

This study explored the combined effects of chiropractic care and hand surgery/rehabilitation in treating patients with double crush syndrome. Seventy-five patients received both chiropractic treatment and surgical rehabilitation.

The study concluded that chiropractic care and hand surgery/rehabilitation are complementary approaches. When used together, they effectively improve patients' symptoms, quality of life, and prognosis.

Source: Cramer SR, Cramer LM. Double crush syndrome: a chiropractic/surgical approach to treatment. Digest of Chiropractic Economics. 1991; Mar/Apr.

Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Case Study Summary

This study evaluated the effects of chiropractic treatment on 38 patients suffering from CTS. The treatment protocol included spinal manipulation, extremity adjusting, soft tissue manipulation, dietary changes, and daily exercises.

After treatment, patients showed improvements in all strength and range of motion measures. Additionally, there was a significant reduction of nearly 15% in pain and distress ratings, indicating notable improvements in both objective and subjective measures of CTS.

Source: Bonebrake AR, Fernandez JE, Marley RJ, et al. A treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome: evaluation of objective and subjective measures. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 1990;13(9): Nov/Dec.

Resolution of a Double-Crush Syndrome: Case Study Summary

This case study followed a 63-year-old male with a 36-month history of right anterior leg numbness and recurrent lower back pain. The study explored how chiropractic care impacted his symptoms, particularly in the context of the double-crush phenomenon, which typically refers to compression or irritation of a nerve at two sites along its path.

Chiropractic care led to the complete resolution of the patient’s right anterior leg numbness. Although the case did not involve carpal tunnel syndrome, the resolution of a double-crush condition in the leg under chiropractic care demonstrates the potential benefits of chiropractic in managing nerve compression syndromes outside the upper extremities.

Source: Flatt DW. Resolution of a double-crush syndrome. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 1994;17(6):395-397.