Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed. This is the nerve that passes through the narrow passageway in your wrist called the carpal tunnel. When your median nerve gets compressed, it can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, such as tingling, numbness and pain in the wrist and hand.
There are surgical options available to relieve pressure on the nerve, but many people prefer to try noninvasive treatment methods first. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, try searching online for, “Hand therapy near me.” Look for an experienced hand therapist that knows how to help return flexibility to your hand and relieve pressure on your median nerve without surgery. Here’s how physical therapy can help you recover quickly from carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Hand Specific Stretches and Exercises
There are hand-specific stretches and exercises that can help relieve pressure on your median nerve. You need to be consistent and perform these exercises as directed by your physical therapist for best results. Wrist extensions and wrist flexions are some of the most helpful stretches for carpal tunnel syndrome.
To perform a wrist extension, hold one arm straight in front of your body. Your hand should be at shoulder height. Try to maintain a soft bend in your elbow while you hold your hand up as if telling someone to “stop.” With your opposite hand, gently pull your palm back toward your body and hold the stretch for 15 seconds. Repeat the stretch five times before switching to the other hand.
To perform a wrist flexion, start with one arm out in front of you just as you do with a wrist extension. Only, instead of raising the hand up in a “stop” position, point the hand downward so your palm is facing your chest. Again, try to keep the elbow soft instead of locking it out. Use the other hand to gently pull your hand toward your body. You should feel the stretch in your wrist and outer forearm. Hold for 15 seconds, then repeat five times before switching to the other hand.
The best physical therapy in NJ should include a variety of similar exercises and stretches. When performed under the direction of a skilled physical therapist, they can help to relieve your symptoms.
Tools and Hand Apparatus
Many therapists use cold and hot treatments to help relieve carpal tunnel pain. In some cases, splinting may be recommended to further reduce discomfort. Your physical therapist may direct you to wear the splint only at night or while performing certain activities. They may also recommend using special gloves to reduce vibration if you commonly handle power tools at home or work.
When looking for the “best physical therapist near me,” make sure the one you chooses offers a variety of solutions to help combat your symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reduce your discomfort. But if you want to avoid surgery, try physical therapy first and see if minimally invasive techniques can provide relief from your symptoms.