Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a highly prevalent and growing condition due to the high use of technology devices. The carpal tunnel is a thin tube in the wrist that connects the forearm to the hand. The median nerve is one of the principal nerves that run through this location. When the median nerve is compressed, generally due to inflammation of the carpal tunnel, tingling, discomfort, and even loss of feeling in the thumb and first two fingers of the hand may ensue.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is often caused by repetitive tasks such as typing at a computer. Direct pressure from the desk and repeated finger movement may irritate the carpal tunnel, injuring the median nerve.
How physical therapy heals carpal tunnel syndrome
Physical therapy is a primary treatment option for carpal tunnel syndrome. It is non-invasive and very successful in resolving problems and preventing their recurrence.
Our holistic physical therapy treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome focus on treating restricted areas along the path of the median nerve, which starts in the neck and runs down the arm and into the wrist. By restoring joint mobility and carpal tunnel space, we relieve strain on the median nerve.
A holistic physical therapy approach utilizes hands-on therapies like manual therapy and myofascial release to stretch and mobilize stiff joints and soft tissues. Cold laser therapy decreases inflammation and stimulates healing. Strength and range of motion exercises help stabilize the neck, arm, and wrist, restoring normal function to the median nerve.
In addition to providing you with specialized exercises to practice at home, we are committed to helping you achieve your goals over the long term. We educate our patients on maintaining appropriate posture and adjusting to their surrounding environment to reduce their risk of re-injury.
Contact Wellspring Health Center to learn how we can successfully treat carpal tunnel syndrome without medications or surgery. Contact us for a Complimentary Consultation at our Eden Prairie, MN, physical therapy clinic. No doctor’s referral is needed, and we accept most insurance plans.
