Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed or pinched. Carpal tunnel syndrome can result from repetitive hand and wrist movements, injury, or conditions such as arthritis or diabetes. Without proper treatment, carpal tunnel syndrome can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and ability to perform everyday tasks. Fortunately, hand therapy with an expert physical therapist at Twin Boro Physical Therapy can effectively relieve carpal tunnel symptoms.
5 Treatment Techniques for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Splinting – One common treatment approach for carpal tunnel syndrome is splinting. Wearing a wrist splint can help keep the wrist in a neutral position and reduce pressure on the median nerve. A physical therapist can recommend the appropriate type of splint and provide instruction on properly wearing it.- Therapeutic Exercises – Another important aspect of hand therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome is therapeutic exercises. These exercises improve strength and flexibility in the hand, wrist, and forearm, which can help reduce symptoms and prevent future injury. A few exercises for carpal tunnel syndrome include:
- Wrist curls – Holding a light weight in your hand with your palm facing upward, slowly flex your wrist to bring the weight towards your forearm, then slowly release it back down to the starting position.
- Finger extensions – Using simple hand-held weights or even a rubber band, which can be wrapped around the fingers to provide resistance, extend your fingers as far as possible, then slowly return them to their original position.
- Grip strengthening exercises – Squeeze a hand grip or therapy putty with your hand to improve grip strength, dexterity, and range of motion in the fingers and wrist. Therapy putty comes in different resistance levels, allowing patients to gradually increase the intensity of their exercises as their hand strength improves.
- Manual Therapy – In addition to splinting and therapeutic exercises, your physical therapist may use manual techniques such as soft tissue or joint mobilization to reduce pain and improve mobility in the affected area. Soft tissue mobilization involves using hands-on pressure and movement to stretch and loosen tight muscles and connective tissue. Joint mobilization involves gentle, rhythmic movements to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
- Modalities – To help reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area, physical therapists at Twin Boro Physical Therapy may also use modalities including:
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- Heat therapy – Helps improve blood flow and relax muscles.
- Ice therapy – Reduces swelling and numbness.
- Ultrasound – Penetrates deep into tissues to promote healing.
- Electrical stimulation – Helps to reduce pain and improve muscle function.
In addition to these physical therapy treatments, a physical therapist may also provide education on proper ergonomics and body mechanics to help prevent future injury. Instruction may include tips on correct posture, an explanation of stretching exercises to perform throughout the day, and recommendations for ergonomic equipment such as a keyboard or mouse.
Let’s Work Together
Twin Boro Physical Therapy offers expert hand therapy treatment to effectively ease the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and enhance the functionality of the hand and wrist. By designing a tailored treatment plan incorporating a blend of treatment techniques, patients with carpal tunnel syndrome can obtain long-lasting relief from the associated pain and resume their daily activities. Get started today by calling 732.554.0775 or completing an appointment request form at https://twinboro.com/schedule-appointment.html.
