CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common and treatable condition caused by pressure on the median nerve at the wrist. Repetitive motions can irritate this nerve over time, and factors like hormonal changes, arthritis, or underlying health conditions can also contribute.

CTS can interfere with activities like typing, cooking, or holding your child — but the good news is that it’s highly treatable. At Pinnacle Hill Chiropractic, we combine chiropractic care, massage therapy, nutrition counseling, and infrared sauna therapy to relieve pain, restore mobility, and prevent recurrence.

Conservative Care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Our conservative carpal tunnel treatment focuses on restoring movement, reducing nerve pressure, and improving wrist and hand function.

Adjustments to the wrist, elbow, shoulder, and neck help relieve nerve irritation and correct muscle imbalances that worsen CTS symptoms. These adjustments support normal biomechanics and reduce strain on the median nerve.

Benefits of Integrative Care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Reduce pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and fingers
  • Restore grip strength and wrist mobility
  • Relieve pressure on the median nerve
  • Improve circulation and decrease inflammation
  • Address contributing issues in the neck, shoulder, and forearm
  • Support long-term prevention and overall hand health

Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Recurrence

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome often develops from repetitive motions, poor ergonomics, or prolonged wrist strain. Our prevention-based approach supports long-term relief through:

  • Ergonomic adjustments for computer workstations and repetitive jobs
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises for the wrists, hands, and forearms
  • Sleep position recommendations to minimize nighttime wrist compression
  • Nutrition counseling focused on anti-inflammatory support
  • Infrared sauna therapy to improve circulation and reduce tightness

Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you’re experiencing hand numbness or tingling, you may be noticing early signs of CTS. Additional symptoms include:

  • Tingling, numbness, or burning in the thumb, index, or middle fingers
  • Pain radiating into the forearm or elbow
  • Weak grip strength or dropping objects
  • Stiffness or reduced wrist mobility
  • Symptoms that worsen at night

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

CTS occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed due to strain, inflammation, or structural changes. Common causes include:

  • Repetitive hand and wrist motions (typing, texting, lifting)
  • Prolonged use of vibrating tools
  • Poor workstation ergonomics
  • Hormonal changes during pregnancy or postpartum
  • Underlying conditions such as arthritis or diabetes

Who Can Benefit from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Care?

Our conservative CTS treatment supports:

Our Integrated Treatment Approach

We take a whole-body, non-surgical approach to carpal tunnel care, addressing the root causes of nerve irritation. Treatment may include:

  • Chiropractic Adjustments: Restore motion in restricted spinal and extremity joints and reduce nerve irritation.
  • Soft Tissue Therapy & Massage: Release muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce protective spasms around the wrist, hand, and forearm.
  • Nutrition Counseling: Dr. Rachel Stummer (MS in Clinical Nutrition) provides anti-inflammatory dietary strategies to support nerve health and recovery.
  • Infrared Sauna Therapy: Promotes circulation, decreases stiffness, reduces inflammation, and supports the healing process.

By combining these evidence-based therapies, we can relieve symptoms, restore nerve function, and help prevent recurrence.

Techniques & Modalities We Use

Hands-On Techniques

  • Chiropractic Adjustments – Improve motion in the wrist, elbow, shoulder, and spine
  • Massage Therapy – Use trigger point and myofascial release to ease tension and reduce nerve compression
  • Joint Mobilization – Enhance wrist and hand flexibility
  • Nerve Flossing & Stretching – Improve mobility of irritated or entrapped nerves
  • Soft Tissue Techniques – Reduce inflammation and promote healing
  • Kinesiology Taping or Bracing – Provide support and improve ergonomic positioning

Supportive Modalities

  • Nutritional Counseling – Anti-inflammatory guidance to support recovery
  • Infrared Sauna Therapy – Enhance circulation and reduce tightness
  • Ergonomic Coaching – Improve posture and movement habits
  • Self-Care Instruction – At-home stretching and massage techniques
  • Lifestyle & Sleep Guidance – Support healthy daily habits and nighttime wrist positioning

Ready to Find Relief?

Don’t let carpal tunnel pain interfere with your work, hobbies, or daily life. Schedule an appointment with Pinnacle Hill Chiropractic in Rochester, NY and start your path to natural, lasting relief.

Frequently Asked Questions About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Yes. By correcting joint restrictions, reducing soft tissue tension, and relieving pressure on the median nerve, chiropractic care can significantly improve symptoms.

Not necessarily. Many cases improve with conservative care such as chiropractic, massage, and lifestyle adjustments. Surgery is typically considered only after these options have been exhausted.

Some patients notice relief within a few sessions, while others may require several weeks depending on severity and daily habits.

Yes. Inflammation contributes to CTS, and anti-inflammatory nutrition strategies can support tissue healing and nerve function.

Yes. Infrared sauna therapy is a gentle, non-invasive option that improves circulation, reduces muscle tension, and promotes healing.

Yes. With proper ergonomics, stretches, and consistent treatment, most patients can continue working while improving symptoms.

For additional information, please refer to our Patient Information page.