Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: How to Treat Your Painful Wrist

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?

If an individual suspects they have carpal tunnel syndrome, the initial treatment should consist of avoiding the positions and activities that produce the pain. A course of conservative treatment is usually recommended that would include rest and immobilization, wrist splinting, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and hand therapy.

Certified Hand Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Certified Hand Therapists are occupational or physical therapists who have specialized training in the evaluation and treatment of hand and upper extremity conditions. To gain the CHT credential, a hand therapist must have fulfilled the following requirements: work for 3 years as an OT or PT, acquire 4,000 hours of direct practice in hand and upper extremity rehabilitation, and pass a rigorous examination demonstrating their expertise in hand therapy.

Certified Hand Therapists work with patients to improve range of motion, reduce pain, and increase strength. Common interventions in the treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include:

• Manual Therapeutic Technique (MTT): MTT is a hands-on approach that uses massage, stretching, and joint mobilization to reduce pain and improve range of motion.
• Therapeutic Exercise (TE): TE involves the use of exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Hand therapists often prescribe exercises that patients can do at home to help speed up the recovery process.
• Wrist Splinting: Wrist splinting is often used to immobilize the wrist and hand to allow the tendons and muscles to rest. This can be done at night or during activities that aggravate the symptoms.
• Neuromuscular Reeducation (NMR): NMR is a type of physical therapy that uses exercises and electrical stimulation to retrain the muscles and nerves. This treatment is often used after an injury or surgery to help the hand regain its function.
• Modalities: Treatments that use heat, cold, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Home Program: A program that includes strengthening, stretching and stabilization exercises and instructions to help the person perform daily tasks and advance to the next functional level.

What Happens if Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is Left Untreated?

If carpal tunnel syndrome is left untreated, it can lead to permanent nerve damage. This can cause problems with hand function and movement. It’s important to seek treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome as soon as possible to avoid any long-term damage. There are many treatment options available at Twin Boro Physical Therapy that can help improve your symptoms and allow you to live a normal, healthy life.

How Long Does It Take to Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The length of time it takes to heal carpal tunnel syndrome varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. In most cases, symptoms improve following a course of conservative care that includes hand therapy, medication and/or injections. If surgery is required, it can take up to two months post-surgery for full motor function of the hand to return.

Why Choose Twin Boro for Hand Therapy?

At Twin Boro Physical Therapy we take pride in maximizing and improving the function and quality of our patients’ lives. Our highly qualified hand therapists will work with you to decrease your symptoms and get you back to doing the things you love!

We have multiple hand therapy locations throughout New Jersey including:

• Bridgewater
• Edison
• Jersey City
• Newark
• Red Bank
• Sayreville/Parlin
• Toms River
• Westfield

To locate the closest hand therapy clinic near you, visit the Twin Boro Find a Location directory to search by the ZIP code.  

Still Unsure if Hand Therapy is Right for You?

At Twin Boro Physical Therapy, our team of hand therapists are experts in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. We offer a variety of treatment options that can help improve your symptoms and allow you to live a normal, healthy life. Schedule an appointment today using our online form or call us at (732) 444-3578  for a free screening or consultation with one of our hand therapists. Our clinicians will listen to your concerns, help determine if you are a candidate for hand therapy services and guide you through the scheduling process to make it as seamless as possible!