What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a hand and arm condition that causes numbness, tingling and other symptoms. Carpal tunnel syndrome is usually caused by a nerve that may be pinched or compressed in your wrist. A number of factors can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome, including the anatomy of your wrist, certain underlying health problems and possibly patterns of hand use. Numbness, tingling, and other symptoms are brought on by the hand and arm illness known as carpal tunnel syndrome. Typically, a nerve in your wrist that may be pinched or crushed is what causes carpal tunnel syndrome.
The architecture of your wrist, some underlying medical conditions, and possibly hand usage patterns are all potential causes of carpal tunnel syndrome. The carpal tunnel is a small canal that runs along the palm side of your wrist and is enclosed by bones and ligaments. The nine tendons that bend your fingers and a major nerve in your hand are both shielded by this tunnel. Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterised by numbness, tingling, and eventually hand weakness due to nerve compression. It is significant to note that some neck problems, where a nerve may be potentially inflamed or compressed, may cause symptoms similar to those of carpal tunnel syndrome.
How Does Physiotherapy Work for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Physiotherapy begins with an assessment of your symptoms, hand and wrist movement, strength, sensation, and functional abilities. Your physiotherapist may also assess the forearm, elbow, shoulder, and neck to identify factors that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Depending on your assessment, treatment may include therapeutic exercises, mobility work, manual therapy, strengthening, and education about activity or movement modification. Your treatment plan can be adjusted according to your symptoms and functional goals.
What Can Physiotherapy Help With?
Physiotherapy may help address physical limitations associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, including:
- Numbness or tingling in the hand
- Wrist and hand discomfort
- Reduced grip or hand strength
- Restricted wrist or hand movement
- Difficulty with repetitive hand activities
- Functional difficulties involving work or everyday tasks
Take the next step.
Our Scott Road clinic welcomes patients from Guildford, Newton, Scott Road, and North Delta for personalized occupational therapy focused on their individual functional goals. Book online or call 778-590-4243.
