Chronic pain is not only agitating but can infringe on your ability to live a healthy, satisfying life. Issues with joints, ligaments, and tendons can create agitating pain that limits daily functioning. One example of chronic wrist pain is carpal tunnel syndrome.
People struggling with the pain of carpal tunnel syndrome may wonder if they should go to physiotherapy for carpal tunnel syndrome. There are many ways a physical therapist can effectively treat the symptoms of carpal tunnel.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)?
The carpal tunnel is a small passageway from the wrist to the hand that protects various nerves and tendons responsible for finger and wrist movements. CTS occurs when the passage narrows from an injury or the nerves and tendons within the carpal tunnel swell.
Many factors can cause CTS, such as wrist fractures, overuse, age, inflammation, and other pressures on the carpal tunnel. Those with carpal tunnel may experience numbness, tingling, or needing to “shake out” their hand before using their fingers or hands. As CTS progresses, it becomes more difficult to type, grasp objects, and use fine motor skills.
How Do Physiotherapists Provide Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment?
There are a few effective methods for the treatment of carpal tunnel. Most patients with CTS should visit a physiotherapist who can perform conservative treatments to alleviate pain and symptoms and improve motor skills. Patients can seek these treatments to avoid surgical solutions and alleviate arthritis that causes CTS.
Conservative Treatments Include:
- Teaching patients how to improve wrist functioning to promote healing
- Education on the cause and effects of repetitive movements
- Stretching exercises enhance the wrist’s muscular functioning and relieve the stresses causing pain.
- Strengthening exercises to improve motor skills
- Splints or braces
- Modalities like laser, ultrasound, acupuncture
Physiotherapy After Surgery
Seeking physiotherapy for carpal tunnel syndrome is especially crucial post-surgery. While CTS surgery can address some of the internal problems causing your pain, physical therapy after your operation will help heal scar tissue, improve motor functioning, and avoid the need for additional invasive treatments. Nerve conduction studies demonstrate the benefits of physiotherapy before and after surgery.
Benefits of Physiotherapy as a Treatment of Carpal Tunnel
Read below about the many benefits of physiotherapy for carpal tunnel.
Reduces Pain
The exercises conducted by physiotherapists can significantly improve your carpal tunnel pain. Through stretches, exercises, and other treatments, physical therapists decrease your daily pain from CTS.
Strengthens Muscles and Improves Flexibility
All physiotherapy aims at improving muscle strength and flexibility. Wrist exercises strengthen your wrist muscles and improve flexibility to increase optimal functioning and decrease CTS symptoms.
Prevents Additional Injuries or Surgery
Engaging with physiotherapy before your carpal tunnel advances can help you avoid additional injuries and the need for invasive treatments.
Creates Customizable Treatment Plans
Physical therapists can work with you to develop a custom plan that addresses your carpal tunnel.
Receive Comprehensive Carpal Tunnel Treatment With We-Fix-U
We-Fix-U Foot Health and Physiotherapy Centres in Oshawa, Bowmanville, Peterborough, Cobourg, and Port Hope offer comprehensive carpal tunnel treatment, physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy, and psychotherapy services. For more information about physiotherapy for carpal tunnel syndrome, call (905) 233-4374 and schedule a consultation with one of our clinics today!
