Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Along the paths that nerves follow are anatomic areas of narrowing. When a nerve compresses for an extended period as it passes underneath or through one of these narrow regions, it can become agitated and inflamed. Unless steps are taken to relieve the pressure being exerted upon it, the nerve can begin to die.
In carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the median nerve compresses within the carpal tunnel, the space at the base of the wrist formed by eight carpal bones and a ligament. Highly repetitive hand or finger movements—and sometimes systemic or hormonal factors—can cause this condition.
Signs and symptoms
Carpal tunnel syndrome has distinctive signs and symptoms that include:
- Numbness and tingling in the hand or fingers
- Night pain
- Decreased sensation in the thumb, index, and middle finger
- Reduced dexterity of the hand or fingers
- A feeling of swollen fingers
- Reduced grip strength
SSPT’s approach to treating CTS
SSPT's treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome focus on relieving pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in your wrist. Your treatment may include:
- Modalities such a hot and cold treatments and ultrasound to help reduce swelling and relieve symptoms
- Custom splints to immobilize the wrist and help relieve discomfort
- Therapeutic gliding exercises to relieve pressure on the median nerve, help loosen and stretch the carpal ligaments, and encourage blood flow
- Education on activity modification
Learn more about other common hand injuries:
