Effective Interventions For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition of the hand, whereby an individual will experience numbness, tingling, and/or weakness down the palm side of the hand and into the fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed as it exits through the carpal bones of the wrist. This compression can result from a range of factors, including repetitive loading of the hand, improper wrist positioning, trauma, secondary injury due to compensatory movement patterns, or underlying health conditions such as arthritis.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms

CTS usually consist of numbness or pins and needles in the palm and fingers, weakness in the hand making it difficult to grasp objects, and pain or discomfort in the wrist, hand, or forearm, especially at night due to prolonged compressive positions while sleeping. 

Physiotherapy and chiropractic therapy plays a crucial role in managing carpal tunnel syndrome by addressing contributing factors, relieving symptoms, and improving hand function.  

Common Conservative Interventions For Carpal Tunnel 

Manual therapy: techniques such as soft tissue work and joint mobilisation can help reduce tension and joint stiffness in the wrist and surrounding tissues, to allow for better mobility of the nerves feeding the hand. 

Exercise Prescription: Specific exercises can target the muscles of the hand, wrist, and forearm to strengthen necessary muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce neural tension of the median nerve. 

Splinting: Wearing a splint or brace at night can help keep the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the nerve and thereby alleviating pain while sleeping. 

Ergonomic Assessment: An evaluation of your workspace is recommended to make ergonomic modifications, to reduce strain on the wrists and hands during daily activities. 

Education & Self-management: Learning about proper hand and wrist positioning, ergonomic principles, and self-care strategies empowers individuals to manage their symptoms effectively. 

If conservative treatment fails to impact CTS, there are also surgical interventions which can help these symptoms and dysfunction. 

Secure The Treatment You Need With Spinal & Sports Care!

Carpal tunnel syndrome can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, but with the right approach, symptoms can be managed effectively. Physiotherapy and chiropractic care offers a holistic approach to treating CTS, addressing underlying issues, and empowering individuals with the tools they need to improve hand function and reduce discomfort. By incorporating exercises, ergonomic modifications, and self-care strategies into your routine, you can take control of your carpal tunnel symptoms and regain confidence in your hand and wrist health. 

If you encounter symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, consider consulting with our team at Spinal & Sports Care to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Reach out to our physiotherapists and chiropractors at Spinal & Sports Care today to receive the care and support you need to address your hand condition.