Treating carpal tunnel with physical therapy

Carpal tunnel syndrome is an issue where pressure is placed on the nerves and tendons in the middle of the inner side of your wrist. It’s also commonly called carpal tunnel. This wrist issue typically develops when the median nerve in the carpal tunnel grows irritated and overcrowded. 

Unfortunately, carpal tunnel is all too common. Medical researchers report that this condition is the most common form of nerve entrapment. The goal of carpal tunnel treatment is to reduce your symptoms and help you resume daily activities.

Common causes of carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is typically caused by holding the wrist in awkward or difficult positions for long periods of time, but it can also be inherited genetically. Here are some possible causes of carpal tunnel syndrome:

• Improper typing posture
• Driving for long periods of time
• Operating heavy machinery, especially equipment that vibrates
• Genetics that cause some people to be born with a more narrow carpal tunnel
• Pregnancy hormones that cause swelling and put pressure on the carpal tunnel
• Diabetes, arthritis and other conditions that can cause swelling and put pressure on the median nerve

If you’re experiencing one or more of the above symptoms, you should visit a medical professional for carpal tunnel treatment. Ignoring symptoms can lead to further problems, such as loss of motion and increased pain.

How a physical therapist can help with carpal tunnel treatment

In many cases, a physical therapist can diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome. In some cases, like those involving trauma, you may require an X-ray for a complete diagnosis.

During an examination, your physical therapist will typically test your grip, range of motion and sensory ability. Your physical therapist may also give you an electromyogram (EMG) test to find out how well your median nerve is performing and how bad your carpal tunnel syndrome is.

After diagnosis, your physical therapist will begin treatment. Typical carpal tunnel treatment includes:

• Exercises aimed at strengthening and stretching the muscles around your median nerve
• Education about wrist position, proper back and neck posture, as well as recommended changes in use of equipment
• Hot/cold treatments to aid in reducing pain

Find a physical therapist for carpal tunnel treatment at Advent Physical Therapy

Start your journey of carpal tunnel treatment with our team at Advent Physical Therapy. Our licensed experts are trained and experienced in helping treat carpal tunnel syndrome. We offer free screenings designed to verify if carpal tunnel syndrome is causing your symptoms. We also excel at building personalized therapy plans for this condition to reduce pain and improve wrist function. 

Can’t get into one of our clinics? No problem! Our team offers at-home therapy and virtual care appointments that you can do right from home. Additionally, you can use any of our high-quality therapy services without first obtaining a doctor’s referral. 

Ready to begin your carpal tunnel treatment journey? Contact our team today for more information about how we can help you or to schedule an initial appointment.