The carpal tunnel is a space in the wrist where the median nerve, blood vessels and tendons pass from your arm into your hand. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel of the wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome, is typically very painful, and can be caused by anything that can cause swelling inside of the wrist, such as repetitive flexion and extension movements of the wrist, repetitive gripping activities, use of tools that vibrate, pregnancy, and arthritis.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Physiotherapy has shown to be effective in the management of carpal tunnel syndrome, especially for mild to moderate cases. A Physiotherapist will take a detailed history and complete a comprehensive assessment, to determine the root cause of your pain. With this information, the physiotherapist will develop an individualized treatment plan to treat your carpal tunnel syndrome. Based on the root cause of your carpal tunnel syndrome, and your symptoms, your individualized treatment plan may include:
- Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue release, mobilization or manipulation
- An individualized exercise program including muscle strengthening and stretching.
- Education on rest and activity modification
- A night wrist splint may be recommended
- Modalities such as acupuncture, TENS, ultrasound, heat or ice
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include pain, numbness and pins and needles. Individuals with carpal tunnel may also experience burning, weakness, cramping, and perceived swelling. Typically, symptoms of carpal tunnel are worse at night, and as the condition worsens, your grip strength may decrease.
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