Condition
Carpal Tunnel Treatment in St. Louis, MO
Hands That Don't Fall Asleep Before You Do
Numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers — especially at night — is the classic carpal tunnel picture: the median nerve getting squeezed at the wrist. But that same nerve can get irritated at the elbow or in the neck too, and sometimes it's pinched in more than one spot. That's why we check the whole path, not just the wrist.
Signs It's Carpal Tunnel
Carpal tunnel usually shows up like this:
Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
Waking up at night and shaking your hands out
Dropping things or a weaker grip
Symptoms with typing, phone use, driving, or using tools
An ache in the wrist or forearm
Hand symptoms that come with neck stiffness
The Approach to Carpal Tunnel
We run a hands-on neurological exam — sensation, strength, and reflexes — along the nerve's whole path from neck to wrist. Care may include gentle adjustments to the wrist and neck, nerve-gliding and soft-tissue work, cold laser therapy to calm irritated tissue, and practical workstation and night-splint guidance. If your neck is part of it, see our nerve pain and numbness care.
When You Need Nerve Testing or a Surgical Opinion
Constant numbness, wasting of the thumb muscle, or weakness that's getting worse means the nerve needs more than conservative care. If that's what we find, we'll refer you for nerve testing or a specialist from our trusted referral network.
Call 911 if numbness or weakness comes on suddenly — especially on one side of the body or face, or with slurred speech or confusion. Those can be signs of a stroke.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a chiropractor help carpal tunnel?
- Many mild-to-moderate cases respond well to conservative care. We'll tell you honestly if yours needs nerve testing or a surgical consult instead.
Should I wear a wrist splint?
- A night splint often helps by keeping the wrist neutral while you sleep. We'll show you what to look for.
Could it be coming from my neck?
- Yes. A nerve can be pinched in the neck and the wrist at the same time, which is why we check both.
How long does it take to improve?
- It varies with how long you've had it and how irritated the nerve is. We recheck regularly so you'll know where you stand.
Let's Get the Feeling Back in Your Hands
We'll trace the nerve from your neck to your fingertips, treat where it's getting squeezed, and tell you straight when you need more than we offer.