What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? CTS is a common condition in which a nerve (median nerve) is compressed in a small space in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. This compression leads to symptoms such as abnormal sensations in the hand commonly described as pins and needles, numbness, burning, loss of motion, decreased grip strength and decreased hand coordination.

Who is at Risk for Carpal Tunnel?

Typically CTS occurs in women more then men, usually after 40 years of age. Compression in the carpal tunnel may also be a result of trauma such as wrist fracture, inflammation of wrist tendons, a ganglion cyst, arthritis, or pregnancy.  Symptoms may present in younger adults who use their wrists in repetitive manual labor such as carpenters, seamstresses, typists, and computor programmers or those who are exposed to excessive vibration such as skilled craftsmen and construction workers.

What is the Recommended treatment For Carpal Tunnel?

In the early stages of CTS, treatment includes immobilization of the wrist with a splint and avoidance of repetitive wrist activities. An individual may be instructed by their physician to wear a wrist splint at night and sometimes during the day. If symptoms persist, a physician may administer a local injection of cortizone(anti-inflammatory). If none of these treatments help, surgery may be required.

Therapy treatment after surgery may include:

1. Scar Management - Completed to decrease the thickness and adhesions of your scar. A thick immobile scar can cause pain and limitations in motion. 

2. Edema (swelling) Management - Typically a different type of massage is used to decrease swelling whch may be present.  A compressive sleeve or glove may be used as well to decrease the swelling in the hand.

3. Range of Motion - You will be given exercises to improve the mobility in your hand such as tendon glides. Your therapist may also have to push your fingers gently to gain motion. This is called passive range of motion.

4. Strengthening - These exercises will be initiated later in your recovery. They will focus on improving the strength necessary to be independent with your activities of  daily living.

5. Functional Assessment - If necessary, your therapist can make recommendations on how to minimize your symptoms.  This may include changes in your work station, different tools, or modified equipment. Posture during activities may also be discussed.

What will be my end result?

Each person will have varying recovery times. The final result will be based on the progression of the carpal tunnel syndrome pre-operatively. The goal for treatment after carpal tunnel release is to decrease pain and symptoms while maximizing the functional use of your hand.What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? CTS is a common condition in which a nerve (median nerve) is compressed in a small space in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. This compression leads to symptoms such as abnormal sensations in the hand commonly described as pins and needles, numbness, burning, loss of motion, decreased grip strength and decreased hand coordination.

By Renee Long, OT/L, CHT