What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when there is compression of the Median nerve at the wrist. This can occur from several different causes: trauma such as a fracture or sprain resulting in swelling, fluid retention in conditions such as diabetes/pregnancy/hyperactive pituitary gland, or the most common – overuse of musculature in the hand. Overuse can often come from jobs that require you to sit and type on a keyboard most of the day. Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include numbness and tingling in the hand, weakness of hand muscles, and pain in the hand at night.
Can Physical Therapy Help?
The short answer is yes. But how? A recent study has shown that physical therapy has positive effects on restoring physical function, reducing pain, and improving nerve conduction in patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Jiménez-del-Barrio, 2022). The study shows that through a comprehensive use of techniques, physical therapists are proficient in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome and able to get you back to your daily activities.
What Will I Do At PT?
At physical therapy, a program will be designed to address your specific impairments. There will be strengthening and stretching exercises, manual therapy techniques focusing on soft tissue and manual manipulations, and use of modalities to maximize physical function and reduce pain. The use of splinting may also be used to help relieve pain and improve comfort at night.
How Do I Get Started?
If you are experiencing symptoms consistent with carpal tunnel syndrome, contact the Respire PT Team today by phone at 703-671-1871 or click here to request an appointment with a Physical Therapist. Let us help you get back to your favorite activities without being slowed down by wrist and hand pain.
References
- Jiménez-del-Barrio, S., Cadellans-Arróniz, A., Ceballos-Laita, L. et al. The effectiveness of manual therapy on pain, physical function, and nerve conduction studies in carpal tunnel syndrome patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. International Orthopaedics (SICOT) 46, 301–312 (2022). https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00264-021-05272-2
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