Are you experiencing numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain in your hand, wrist, or arm? These could be symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), a common condition that affects millions of people. At Precision Rehab, Occupational, Physical & Hand Therapy, P.L.L.C., we specialize in comprehensive, non-surgical treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, helping you find lasting relief and regain full function in your hand and wrist.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm into your hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. This nerve, along with several tendons, passes through a narrow passageway in your wrist called the carpal tunnel. When the tissues surrounding these tendons swell, they can put pressure on the median nerve, leading to the characteristic symptoms of CTS.
Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger.
- Pain that may extend from the hand up the arm to the shoulder.
- Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grasp objects or perform fine motor tasks.
- A sensation of swelling in the fingers, even if no visible swelling is present.
- Symptoms that are often worse at night and may wake you from sleep.
Symptoms often worsen with repetitive hand and wrist motions, prolonged gripping, or sustained wrist positions.
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause of CTS can vary, it is often associated with a combination of factors, including:
- Repetitive Hand and Wrist Motions: Jobs or hobbies involving prolonged, repetitive use of the hands and wrists (e.g., typing, assembly line work, using vibrating tools).
- Wrist Anatomy: Some people naturally have smaller carpal tunnels.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, thyroid imbalance, rheumatoid arthritis, pregnancy, and obesity can increase risk.
- Trauma: A wrist fracture or dislocation can alter the space within the carpal tunnel.
Our Non-Surgical Approach to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
At Precision Rehab, Occupational, Physical & Hand Therapy, P.L.L.C., our skilled hand therapists are experts in providing conservative (non-surgical) treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Our comprehensive approach focuses on reducing nerve compression, alleviating symptoms, and restoring strength and function. Your personalized treatment plan may include:
Detailed Assessment
- A thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, hand strength, sensation, and range of motion to accurately diagnose the extent of your CTS.
Custom Splinting
- Fabrication of a custom-made wrist splint (orthosis) to hold your wrist in a neutral position, especially during sleep or repetitive activities. This helps reduce pressure on the median nerve.
Therapeutic Exercises
- Nerve Gliding Exercises: Gentle exercises designed to help the median nerve move more freely within the carpal tunnel, reducing irritation.
- Tendon Gliding Exercises: To improve the smooth movement of tendons through the carpal tunnel.
- Strengthening Exercises: To improve grip strength and overall hand function once symptoms are managed.
- Stretching: To address tightness in the wrist and forearm muscles.
Manual Therapy
- Hands-on techniques to mobilize soft tissues and joints in the wrist and forearm, helping to reduce swelling and improve tissue mobility around the carpal tunnel.
Pain and Swelling Management
- Application of modalities such as ice, heat, or therapeutic laser to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
Ergonomic and Activity Modification Education
- Guidance on proper posture, workstation setup, and techniques to modify daily activities that may aggravate your symptoms. This is crucial for preventing symptom recurrence.
Why Choose Precision Rehab, Occupational, Physical & Hand Therapy, P.L.L.C. for CTS?
- Specialized Hand Therapy Expertise: Our therapists have advanced training specifically in hand and upper extremity conditions.
- Conservative Approach: We prioritize non-surgical treatments to achieve lasting relief.
- Personalized Care: Every treatment plan is tailored to your unique condition and lifestyle.
- Focus on Prevention: We empower you with strategies to manage your symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.
- Integrated Care: Our approach combines effective therapies to maximize your recovery.
Don't let Carpal Tunnel Syndrome limit your ability to work, sleep, or enjoy your daily activities. Contact Precision Rehab, Occupational, Physical & Hand Therapy, P.L.L.C. today to schedule your comprehensive evaluation and take the first step toward relieving your symptoms and reclaiming comfortable hand function.