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Physical Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Struggling with Hand Pain or Numbness?

Carpal tunnel syndrome can make everyday tasks like typing, writing, or gripping objects painful and frustrating. Physical therapy can help relieve symptoms, improve strength, and prevent worsening conditions. Don’t wait for the pain to take over – start your recovery today.
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Are You at Risk for
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

  • Perform repetitive hand movements daily (typing, sewing, playing instruments, assembly line work).
  • Have a history of wrist injuries or fractures.
  • Experience frequent tingling or weakness in your fingers.
  • Have underlying conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or hypothyroidism.
  • Work with vibrating tools or in positions that strain the wrist.

If you’re experiencing pain, tingling or numbness from your fingers to your elbow, it could be the early stages of carpal tunnel syndrome. You may initially dismiss it, thinking that you’ve overworked your hand. A short break may bring temporary relief but soon, the discomfort returns – often more intense than before.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common repetitive strain injury caused by swelling in the wrist. This puts pressure on the median nerve, which can lead to numbness, weakness and tingling that may spread from your hand and wrist up through your arm. In extreme cases, chronic pain and loss of function may require surgery. Yet before considering this option, doctors often recommend physical therapy to reduce symptoms and restore function.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage on the underside of your wrist that protects the median nerve and tendons responsible for finger movement. Inflammation, injury or aging can cause the carpal tunnel to narrow or the tendons to swell, which constricts the median nerve.

This compression leads to pain during everyday activities, such as typing and lifting or holding objects. Carpal tunnel pain often feels like a burning sensation or deep muscle ache.

Common Symptoms

  • Tingling or numbness in the fingers – usually the index, middle finger and thumb
  • A weaker grip in one hand compared to the other
  • Difficulty holding objects like pens, mugs, utensils and phones
  • Accidentally dropping objects due to decreased grip strength

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome results from repetitive motion, strain or pressure on the wrist.  Some of the most common causes include:

  • Jobs and hobbies that require frequent hand and wrist movement, such as office work, typing, assembly line jobs, sewing, playing musical instruments or gaming.
  • Prolonged exposure to vibrations, often seen in manual labor like construction and roofing.
  • Past wrist injuries, including fractures, strains, dislocations or tendonitis.
  • Hormonal changes, which may contribute to fluid retention and swelling.
  • Chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Obesity, which increases strain on the wrists.
  • Side effects of medications, including chemotherapy and steroids.
  • Cysts or fluid buildup near the carpal tunnel.

What to Expect During Physical Therapy

For patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, physical therapy helps strengthen the hand and wrist muscles, improve flexibility and reduce pain.

During your first session at Integrated Rehab, your physical therapist will:

  • Assess the affected hand, wrist and arm
  • Ask when your symptoms first appeared and how frequently they occur
  • Identify which activities aggravate your symptoms
  • Review any prior imaging or medical tests
  • Discuss your work, hobbies and daily routine
  • Evaluate your pain level and functional limitations

Your physical therapist may also ask you to perform specific movements or grip objects to assess your strength and range of motion in the wrist, hand and arm.

Your Personalized Treatment Plan

Based on your evaluation, a customized treatment plan will be created, which may include:

  • Education & Ergonomics: Guidance on proper posture and positioning when using a keyboard, adjusting your workspace and taking breaks. Your physical therapy may also suggest wearing anti-vibration gloves or wrist supports.
  • Stretching & Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises help improve your wrist flexibility, strengthen hand muscles and support better posture.
  • Splinting: Wearing a wrist splint can keep the affected area stable and reduce swelling.
  • Hot & Cold Therapy: Applying heat or ice to reduce swelling and promote healing.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Whether to avoid surgery or recover after a procedure, physical therapy has significant benefits, including:

  • Pain relief and improved hand function
  • Preserved wrist strength and flexibility
  • Better habits to continue working comfortably
  • Returning to work faster after an injury
  • Regaining the ability to enjoy hobbies and daily activities

Has your doctor recommended physical therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome?

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