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Carpal Tunnel Syndrom

 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrom

Man with Carpal tunnel syndrome holding wrist.

 Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is possibly the most common nerve disorder affecting 10 million Americans. It is caused by intense pressure on the median nerve, which is located at the base of the palm, resulting in pain of the wrist, hand, and in severe cases, the whole arm. 

Surgery for CTS is commonly performed on the wrist and hand. Fortunately, physical therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome can often relieve pain and restore normal use of the hand, wrist, and arm without the need for surgery.

If you have hand or wrist pain, including carpal tunnel syndrome, and want an effective and conservative treatment plan free from surgery, schedule your consultation with a physical therapist at 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness in Fulton, Maryland today.  

WHAT IS CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a nerve disorder that occurs when the median nerve of the hand becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist.  The median nerve provides feeling to the palm side of the fingers. 

CTS typically affects just one hand but can affect both at the same time. Symptoms such as pain, numbness and tingling can be felt in the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers. The numbness, pain, and tingling can extend up to the forearm. Individuals may feel that their hand is swollen though swelling is not usually present with CTS. 

Occasionally, individuals have two sites of nerve compression in the upper limb at the same time—a condition known as Double Crush Syndrome. Individuals with double crush syndrome can experience a variety of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, pins and needles, pain in the upper limb, headaches, and neck pain. 

Physical therapy for Double Crush Syndrome will include personalized manual therapy such as joint manipulation and mobilization and stretching and strengthening exercises for the upper limb and hand muscles.

CAUSES OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Many times, no single cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be identified. CTS is often the result of a combination of factors such as swelling, fluid retention, or benign tumor growth, that reduce the available space for the median nerve in the wrist.   

Factors that can cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include:

Xray of hand with Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Trauma or injury, such as sprains or fractures

  • Overactive pituitary gland, causing an excessive growth or swelling of soft tissues

  • Underactive thyroid gland, due to peripheral neuropathy

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis

  • Repetitive use, whether occupational or hobby-related

  • Pregnancy or menopause, due to fluid retention

Symptoms frequently occur during activities that require use of the hands, such as buttoning a shirt, extended periods of typing, or grasping something for an extended period. Other activities that may induce symptoms of CTS include holding a steering wheel, holding a book, or other activities that may test your grip strength. 

Many do not seek medical attention as symptoms can be mild and periodic. If left untreated, muscles can weaken, and the disorder can become chronic and debilitating. CTS can cause impaired use of the hand and wrist, resulting in permanent nerve and muscle damage. 

PHYSICAL THERAPY TREATMENTS FOR CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other pains of the hand and wrist can be effectively treated with physical therapy interventions. If surgery is necessary, post-surgical physical therapy is a great option to speed healing and regain strength. At 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness we use an individually tailored approach to reduce pain and improve your quality of life. 

Our specialized approach to using physical therapy for treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome includes:

  • Manual therapy. These techniques, as performed by the physical therapist, are designed to decrease pain and increase range of motion. 

  • Functional strengthening. Certain exercises will be prescribed to be performed during your physical therapy session and at home to increase the strength of the hand and wrist.

  • Stretch exercises. Stretching can improve flexibility of the wrist, hand, and fingers and promotes blood flow to reduce swelling.

  • Electrical stimulation. A therapeutic treatment that applies electrodes to the hand and wrist, treating muscle spasms and pain. Electrical stimulation maintains muscular strength, reduces inflammation, and improves range of motion. 

  • Ultrasound. This therapeutic technique uses sound waves to create a vibration that generates heat. Ultrasound therapy is used to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing. Ultrasound therapy is commonly used in treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, bursitis, and arthritis of the hand and wrist.

Physical therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a safe and effective treatment option. Contact 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness today.