Conditions We Treat · NW Calgary

Carpal Tunnel — not always just a wrist problem

Numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and wrist are classic carpal tunnel symptoms — but the median nerve's path begins in the cervical spine. Treating only the wrist misses half the picture.

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Wrist and cervical assessment
Direct billing available

Following the median nerve from neck to fingertip

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist — creating numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. It is extremely common among desk workers, keyboard users, and anyone doing repetitive hand movements.

What many patients don't know is that the median nerve originates from nerve roots in the lower cervical spine (C6, C7, C8). Compression anywhere along its path — including at the neck — can cause symptoms identical to carpal tunnel. This is called a double crush phenomenon, where compression at multiple points creates cumulative symptoms.

We assess both the wrist and the cervical spine in every carpal tunnel presentation. Our INSiGHT scan identifies whether there is cervical nerve root involvement — which changes the treatment approach significantly.

Common Symptoms

Numbness or tingling in the fingers

Most commonly affecting the thumb, index, and middle finger — often worse at night or after prolonged keyboard or phone use.

Weakness in grip strength

Difficulty gripping objects, dropping things, or struggling with fine motor tasks like buttoning clothing.

Wrist and forearm aching

A dull ache extending from the wrist up into the forearm — often worse after activities requiring repetitive hand movement.

Before considering surgery, a full assessment of the wrist and cervical spine often reveals a treatable cause that doesn't require an operation.

Before you consider a brace or surgery, let's assess the full picture.

We assess both the wrist and cervical spine for nerve compression. INSiGHT scan included. Direct billing available.

Book Online via JaneApp Call 403‑280‑0945

Questions? Call us at 403-280-0945