Osteoarthritis and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common condition that causes wrist and hand pain with overuse. These become problems when tissues in that area become irritated or inflamed, or when pressure builds on the nerve and symptoms begin.
At Move Free Chiropractic in Tempe, we take a holistic approach to treating the hands and wrist symptoms—focusing on the root cause rather than just masking the pain.
Carpal Tunnel & Wrist Arthritis Treatment in Tempe, AZ
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome happens when the median nerve becomes compressed as it travels through a narrow passage in the wrist. Common symptoms include:
- Tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
- Burning or aching in the palm or wrist
- Hand weakness
- Difficulty gripping small objects
- A “swollen” feeling in the hand, even without visible swelling
Symptoms may start gradually and worsen over time if the nerve continues to be irritated.
Osteoarthritis of the Wrist and Hands
Osteoarthritis is a wear-and-tear condition that occurs when the protective cartilage in joints gradually breaks down. In the hands and wrists, this can lead to:
- Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
- Aching pain with movement
- Swelling around the joints
- Reduced grip strength
- Enlarged or knobby finger joints
Unlike carpal tunnel, which involves nerve compression, osteoarthritis is related to joint degeneration and inflammation. However, both conditions can limit hand function and impact daily life.
What Causes These Conditions?
Carpal Tunnel may develop from:
- Repetitive wrist movements (typing, tools, assembly work)
- Pregnancy-related swelling
- Previous wrist injuries
- Poor posture
- Nerve irritation stemming from the neck or upper spine
Osteoarthritis is commonly influenced by:
- Age-related joint changes
- Previous injuries
- Repetitive stress on the hands
- Genetics
It’s important to understand that nerve health and joint health are connected. Misalignment in the wrist, elbow, shoulder, or neck can increase stress on joints and nerves alike.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Traditional approaches may include braces, anti-inflammatory medications, injections, or surgery. While those options may provide temporary relief, they don’t always address movement dysfunction or joint alignment.
At Move Free Chiropractic, we begin with a thorough evaluation of:
- Wrist and finger joint motion
- Grip strength
- Elbow and shoulder mechanics
- Neck and upper spine alignment
- Posture and daily habits
Your customized care plan may include:
- Gentle adjustments to the wrist, fingers, elbow, shoulder, or neck
- Soft tissue therapy to reduce tension and inflammation
- Joint mobilization techniques to improve movement
- Shockwave and EMTT treatment for carpal tunnel and osteoarthritis symptoms
- Simple strengthening and mobility exercises
For osteoarthritis, our goal is to improve joint motion, reduce stiffness, and decrease stress on irritated joints. For carpal tunnel, we focus on reducing nerve compression and restoring healthy movement patterns.
What a Session Is Like
Your visits are comfortable, focused, and personalized.
- We’ll check in on your symptoms and progress.
- Targeted treatments will be performed based on your plan.
- Adjustments are gentle and controlled.
- You may receive simple home exercises or ergonomic recommendations.
Many patients report improved mobility, stronger grip, and reduced tingling or stiffness as care progresses. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term joint restriction or nerve irritation.
If wrist or hand pain—whether from carpal tunnel or osteoarthritis—is interfering with your work, hobbies, or daily routine, our team at Move Free Chiropractic in Tempe is here to help you move freely again with less pain and better function.
