Managing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Hand Pain with Physical Therapy

A man suffers from pain, numbness and tingling in the wrist, hand and fingers symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

In short:

  • Start with Physical Therapy: Special exercises and techniques can help manage carpal tunnel syndrome by reducing pain and improving hand and wrist function.
  • Use Simple Relief Methods: Stretching, improving posture, using splints, and specific exercises can ease symptoms.
  • Think About Surgery if Needed: If symptoms are severe, surgery might help, followed by rehab.

Physical therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome offers a proven path to relief without surgery. Carpal tunnel syndrome affects millions of people worldwide. This common condition causes numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the hand and wrist. The symptoms occur when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in your wrist.

Physical therapy stands as one of the most effective treatments for managing symptoms. Many patients find significant relief through targeted exercises and specialized techniques. At The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Division, patients receive comprehensive care. We have board-certified orthopedic hand surgeons and licensed physical therapists on board.

Can You Fix Carpal Tunnel With Physical Therapy?

Yes, physical therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome can ease symptoms without the need for surgery. Research shows that many people can avoid surgery with proper conservative treatment. Physical therapists use several effective techniques to treat carpal tunnel syndrome.

Therapeutic Exercises

Exercises designed to strengthen the muscles in your wrist and forearm can help. These exercises support proper wrist alignment. They also reduce pressure on the median nerve, which is the source of the symptoms.

Manual Therapy Techniques

Physical therapists use hands-on methods like gentle stretching, massage, and joint mobilization. These techniques:

  • Improve blood flow
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Ease discomfort

Splinting for Support

Wearing a splint keeps your wrist in a neutral position, especially while you sleep. According to the Mayo Clinic, this positioning helps prevent further compression of the median nerve.

Ergonomic Training

Learning better ways to use your hands and wrists during daily activities can make a big difference. The Cleveland Clinic says ergonomic training helps you avoid movements that worsen symptoms.

Personalized Treatment Plans

At The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics, physical therapists create customized treatment plans based on:

  • Your activity level
  • Your symptom severity
  • Your lifestyle

This individualized approach ensures the best chance of successful treatment.

What Is the Best Exercise for Carpal Tunnel?

Some exercises can help ease carpal tunnel symptoms. They focus on the median nerve, muscles, and tendons to reduce pain and improve movement.

Nerve Gliding Exercises

These gentle movements help the median nerve move more freely through the carpal tunnel. They prevent the nerve from sticking to nearby tissues, reducing irritation.

Wrist Stretches

Stretching the wrist flexor and extensor muscles can ease tightness that contributes to nerve compression. To do this, hold your arm straight out with your palm facing down. Use your other hand to bend your wrist gently up and down. Hold each position for 15 to 30 seconds.

Tendon Glides

Tendon gliding exercises improve finger movement and prevent stiffness. Start by making a fist, then slowly straighten your fingers. Meanwhile, keep your wrist in a neutral position. Repeat this several times throughout the day.

Grip-Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening your grip supports overall hand and wrist function. Squeeze a stress ball or therapy putty for a few seconds, then release. Begin with light resistance and gradually increase as your strength improves.

Guidance from Physical Therapists

At The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Division, we teach patients the right way to perform these exercises. Using proper technique ensures safety and helps you get the most benefit.

As the best physical therapy place near you, we also provide advice on how to do these exercises at home.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Hand therapy provides multiple benefits beyond pain relief.

Improves Hand and Wrist Function

Treatment improves overall function in your hand and wrist. You regain the ability to perform daily tasks without discomfort or difficulty.

Prevents Stiffness and Maintains Flexibility

Therapy prevents joint stiffness and maintains a normal range of motion. Regular movement keeps your joints healthy and flexible. This preventive aspect helps avoid additional complications down the road.

Teaches Long-Term Healthy Habits

Hand therapy builds long-term habits that protect your hand and wrist health. You learn proper body mechanics and ergonomic principles. These skills serve you well throughout your life.

Our specialized hand therapists bring extensive training to your care. They understand the complex anatomy of the hand and wrist. This expertise ensures you receive the most effective treatment possible.

When Is Surgery Needed?

Physical therapy helps most carpal tunnel patients. However, surgery may be needed if symptoms persist after months of treatment:

  • Hand weakness
  • Muscle loss
  • Constant numbness

At The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Division, hand surgeons and physical therapists work together. The procedure is called carpal tunnel release. It involves cutting the ligament in the wrist to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

October is National Physical Therapy Month, and Bone Joint Week is happening on October 12-20. This week, we recognize how physical therapists help patients stay active and avoid surgery.

Physical Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Baltimore, MD

Physical therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome is highly effective, especially when started early. Early treatment often eliminates the need for surgery. Licensed physical therapists create personalized plans to help restore comfort and hand strength. With us, patients benefit from expert hand therapy and orthopedic care in one location. You can trust our physical therapists, led by Clinical Director Orsam Ahmed, DPT, CMTPT.

By combining therapy, exercises, and lifestyle changes, you can achieve long-term relief. Trust The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Division. Call us at (410) 644-1880 or use our online scheduling tool to set a physical therapy appointment near you.

We look forward to serving you!

Disclaimer: These exercises are provided as a general guideline of what may be helpful to address typical deficits before surgery. They may not be appropriate for everyone. Additionally, the strengthening exercises are listed with “sets” only, the number of repetitions that each individual will be capable of completing will vary. Please consult your physical therapist for an individualized program.