Can Physical Therapy Help With Carpal Tunnel?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the nerves in the hands and arms.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the nerves in the hands and arms. Despite being relatively common, doctors are yet to find a permanent cure for it.

Let’s see whether physical therapy can be an effective method to treat carpal tunnel syndrome:

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome manifests in pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, wrist, and forearm. This results in the wrist’s median nerve getting compressed, passing through a “tunnel” over the carpal bones.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is associated with genetic factors, but one of its most common causes is the overuse of the hands or wrists.

Once the condition sets in, patients usually receive recommendations to try non-invasive treatment to improve their condition and mitigate the pain. These include splinting, anti-inflammatory medication, and of course, physical therapy.

Can physical therapy help with carpal tunnel?

The short answer is yes; physical therapy can be valuable for those struggling with carpal tunnel syndrome. Physical therapists are trained professionals who can treat the pain at its source, which isn’t located in the wrist but the neck. They will also assess patients to address other imbalances in the musculoskeletal system the condition may have triggered.

Physical therapy sessions for carpal tunnel syndrome can address various aspects of the condition. For example, strength exercises improve grip, while stretching helps relieve pressure on the nerve. Physical therapists may also conduct heat and ice treatments to boost blood flow and lower inflammation in the affected area.

During sessions, therapists can also advise patients on lifestyle changes that can help improve their condition. These include using hands-free solutions on devices and resting often. Patients will also learn various exercises they can do independently at home. Physical therapists might also point patients toward other supplementary treatments to achieve the best results.

When should one see a physical therapist?

As soon as carpal tunnel symptoms appear, taking measures to mitigate them is key to slowing down the progression of the condition. Postponing treatment will worsen the condition and make it harder to manage in the future. Therefore, those experiencing pain, tingling, and numbness in their hands, fingers, wrists, or arms should seek medical advice and schedule an assessment with a physical therapist sooner rather than later. Those who receive surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome also undergo rehab therapy, as the condition can return after a while.

Access physical therapy for carpal tunnel

While there is no “quick fix” for carpal tunnel syndrome, physical therapy has significant potential to make symptoms more manageable. In addition, it’s the best way to approach treatment before invasive procedures become necessary.

Liberated Rehabilitation is a mobile physical therapy service in the Phoenix metro area specializing in fully personalized in-home physical therapy. We provide tailored physical therapy in the home or work setting for faster, better recovery. Call (602)755-2276 to schedule an appointment.