Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition caused by the compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This condition leads to symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Physiotherapy offers non-surgical, effective solutions to manage and alleviate CTS symptoms, improving hand function and quality of life.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

1. Repetitive Motion: Prolonged typing, writing, or assembly-line work.
2. Wrist Positioning: Frequent flexion or extension of the wrist.
3. Medical Conditions: Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or hypothyroidism.
4. Pregnancy: Fluid retention can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
• Weakness in hand grip strength.
• Pain radiating from the wrist to the forearm or shoulder.
• Difficulty holding objects or performing fine motor tasks.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

1. Pain and Symptom Management

• Nerve Gliding Exercises: Gentle movements to improve the mobility of the median nerve and reduce nerve compression.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques to release soft tissue restrictions in the forearm and wrist.
• Stretching: Targeted stretches to alleviate tightness in the wrist flexors and extensors.

2. Strengthening and Mobility

• Hand and Wrist Strengthening: Exercises to improve muscle function and support the carpal tunnel.
• Grip Training: Activities to restore hand grip strength and dexterity.
• Postural Corrections: Addressing poor posture in the neck and shoulders to reduce strain on the wrist.

3. Ergonomic Modifications

• Workstation Adjustments: Recommendations for proper keyboard and mouse positioning to minimize wrist strain.
• Splinting: Use of wrist braces to keep the wrist in a neutral position, especially during sleep.

4. Electrotherapy Techniques

• Ultrasound Therapy: Reduces inflammation and promotes healing of tissues.
• TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): Helps to relieve pain by stimulating nerves.

5. Education and Prevention

• Teaching proper wrist alignment and movement during daily tasks.
• Guidance on activity modification to reduce repetitive strain on the wrist.

Benefits of Physiotherapy for CTS

• Reduced pain and numbness.
• Improved hand strength and coordination.
• Increased wrist flexibility and range of motion.
• Decreased need for surgical intervention.
• Long-term prevention of symptom recurrence.

Home Exercises for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

1. Median Nerve Glide:

   • Extend your arm and wrist while gently stretching your fingers backward.
   • Repeat 5–10 times daily.

2. Wrist Stretch:

   • Place your palm against a wall and gently press to stretch the wrist and forearm.
   • Hold for 20–30 seconds.

3. Finger Flexor Stretch:

   • Use your opposite hand to pull your fingers back gently.
   • Hold for 15–20 seconds per hand.

4. Wrist Circles:

   • Rotate your wrists in circular motions to promote blood flow and mobility.

When to See a Physiotherapist?

• If symptoms persist for more than 2–3 weeks.
• If pain disrupts sleep or daily activities.
• If weakness or numbness in the hand worsens over time.

Conclusion

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the non-invasive management of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. By addressing pain, improving mobility, and providing preventive strategies, it empowers patients to regain full hand functionality and reduce the risk of long-term complications. With consistent therapy and ergonomic adjustments, CTS can be effectively managed without surgical intervention.