Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: How Wrist Position Affects Your Risk

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common form of peripheral neuropathy, caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This condition is often linked to prolonged, repetitive hand movements, such as typing, using a mouse, gripping tools, or texting.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

The position of the wrist and hand plays a major role in the development and progression of CTS. Research shows that pressure inside a healthy wrist naturally doubles when we bend it. However, in individuals with CTS, this pressure can increase up to six times—especially if inflammation or injury is present.

Why Does Wrist Position Matter?

📌 Key Facts:
✔️ Bending the wrist in extreme positions significantly increases pressure on the median nerve.
✔️ At night, we have little control over wrist positioning, which is why symptoms often worsen during sleep.
✔️ Repetitive movements (like clicking a mouse or texting) can flatten, swell, and compress the median nerve, increasing CTS risk.

How Everyday Activities Contribute to CTS

A 2014 study examined 31 healthy college students using ultrasonography to measure median nerve deformation during various wrist and finger movements.

🔹 Key Findings:
✔️ Even a 30° wrist extension flattened the median nerve, leading to compression.
✔️ Rapid mobile phone keying for just five minutes caused the carpal tunnel area to swell.
✔️ Repeated mouse clicking had an even greater impact on the median nerve than typing.

📢 What This Means for You: If you frequently use a smartphone, keyboard, or mouse, your risk of developing CTS increases—especially if you use non-neutral wrist positions.

Proven Strategies to Reduce CTS Risk

1. Chiropractic Care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

At Connecticut Disc and Laser Therapy Centers, we use non-invasive chiropractic treatments to relieve pressure on the median nerve and improve wrist function.

📌 Chiropractic Treatments for CTS Include:
✔️ Manual therapy to realign wrist joints and reduce inflammation
✔️ Nerve gliding exercises to enhance median nerve mobility
✔️ Spinal adjustments to correct nerve compression in the neck (which can contribute to CTS symptoms)

A clinical study found that chiropractic care significantly improves grip strength and reduces pain in CTS patients.

2. MLS Laser Therapy for Wrist Pain & Inflammation

MLS Laser Therapy is a cutting-edge, FDA-approved treatment that reduces inflammation and promotes nerve healing in CTS patients.

📌 Benefits of MLS Laser Therapy for CTS:
✔️ Reduces swelling and pressure on the median nerve
✔️ Speeds up healing of irritated soft tissues
✔️ Relieves wrist pain and numbness without surgery

A 2020 study found that MLS Laser Therapy significantly reduces nerve pain and improves grip function in CTS patients.

3. Storz Shockwave Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Relief

Storz Shockwave Therapy uses high-frequency acoustic waves to break down adhesions and stimulate tissue regeneration in the wrist.

📌 How Shockwave Therapy Helps CTS:
✔️ Breaks up scar tissue in the carpal tunnel
✔️ Improves circulation to speed up healing
✔️ Non-invasive with no downtime

A 2021 study found that shockwave therapy provides long-term relief for CTS patients by reducing nerve compression and improving hand function.

4. Wrist Splinting & Ergonomic Modifications

To prevent worsening CTS symptoms, we recommend:

✔️ Wearing a wrist splint at night to keep the wrist in a neutral position
✔️ Avoiding prolonged, extreme wrist angles (especially when typing or using a phone)
✔️ Using an ergonomic keyboard & mouse to reduce strain
✔️ Taking frequent breaks from repetitive hand movements

5. Nutritional Support for Nerve Health

Certain vitamins and supplements can help reduce inflammation and support nerve healing in CTS patients.

📌 Recommended Supplements for CTS:
✔️ Vitamin B6 – Supports healthy nerve function
✔️ Magnesium – Helps relax tight muscles and reduce nerve pressure
✔️ Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Reduces inflammation in the wrist and joints

Is It Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or Dupuytren’s Disease?

Another common hand condition that can be mistaken for CTS is Dupuytren’s Disease.

🔹 What Is Dupuytren’s Disease?
✔️ Affects the connective tissue under the palm (fascia)
✔️ Causes thickening and contraction of fascia fibers, leading to finger stiffness and curling
✔️ Symptoms include pain, restricted movement, and nodules in the palm

📢 If you’re experiencing symptoms like finger contractures or tightness in the palm, consult a specialist to determine whether you have CTS or Dupuytren’s Disease.

Get Relief from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Today!

If you’re struggling with wrist pain, numbness, or hand weakness, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. At Connecticut Disc and Laser Therapy Centers, we offer advanced, non-surgical solutions to eliminate pain and restore function—without invasive procedures.

📞 Call us today at 203-456-9299 or schedule your appointment online at schedule.ctdisccenters.com!

Related Articles:

📖 MLS Laser Therapy for Nerve Pain & Carpal Tunnel
📖 Shockwave Therapy for Wrist & Hand Pain
📖 Chiropractic Care for Hand & Wrist Conditions