Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a relatively common condition that affects the wrist and hand — leading to discomfort and limiting the ability to perform everyday tasks. Knowing how to prevent and treat this condition is important for anyone who frequently uses their hands and wrists, particularly in repetitive motions.
We’ll cover the essentials from what carpal tunnel syndrome entails to its causes, early signs, symptoms, and effective prevention and treatment strategies – including physiotherapy. We’ll also look at why choosing Coast Sport for carpal tunnel treatment could be a big step towards managing and relieving symptoms effectively.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome arises from compression of the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel — a narrow passage of ligaments and bones located at the base of the wrist. This nerve provides sensation to the thumb, index, middle and part of the ring finger.
When pressure builds up in this area it can lead to various symptoms that affect hand and wrist functionality, interfering with regular activities. This condition is particularly prevalent among people engaged in repetitive hand movements, such as typing, crafting or playing musical instruments.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome typically comes from increased pressure on the median nerve — which can occur due to swelling or any factor that reduces the carpal tunnel’s size. A few factors contribute to this condition.
Repetitive hand movements that involve prolonged wrist flexion are a common cause; these movements put continuous strain on the wrist, which over time may lead to the onset of CTS. Additionally, certain people may naturally have a smaller carpal tunnel, making them more susceptible to this condition.
Underlying health conditions can also play a role. For example, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid dysfunction can elevate the risk of developing CTS. Pregnancy may also increase susceptibility to CTS, as hormonal changes during this time can lead to swelling that presses on the median nerve.
Trauma or injury, such as fractures or sprains to the wrist, may further reduce the carpal tunnel space, compressing the nerve. Understanding these causes can be instrumental in implementing preventative strategies, especially for individuals at higher risk of CTS.
How to Identify Early Signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Detecting carpal tunnel syndrome early is essential for proper management. The first signs of CTS can be subtle, yet recognising them can make a big difference in preventing the condition’s progression.
Many people report experiencing numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, which may initially appear sporadic. Hand weakness can also develop, manifesting as difficulty in holding objects or even an unintentional tendency to drop things.
Another common sign is discomfort during the night, as symptoms tend to worsen due to relaxed muscles and fluid build-up while sleeping. Additionally, some people experience a sensation of finger swelling without any visible signs of it.
Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
As carpal tunnel syndrome progresses, symptoms may become more frequent and intense, interfering with everyday tasks and overall hand function.
- Persistent numbness and tingling in the fingers can develop, affecting the areas innervated by the median nerve.
- A burning sensation in the hand or wrist is also commonly reported, which can lead to discomfort and hinder everyday activities.
- Pain from CTS may radiate up the arm towards the shoulder, which may result in reduced grip strength.
In cases where CTS has progressed substantially without treatment, muscle atrophy at the base of the thumb may occur, diminishing hand function and making it difficult to perform basic actions. Recognising these symptoms as soon as they appear allows for quicker intervention and, ideally, mitigation of further damage.
Tips for Preventing CTS
Preventing carpal tunnel syndrome largely involves proactive measures to reduce strain on the hands and wrists. Adjusting your workspace ergonomically can help align the wrist and hand correctly, thereby reducing unnecessary pressure.
Ergonomic keyboards, mouse devices, and wrist supports are often helpful tools. Keeping the wrist in a neutral position is also essential, whether you’re typing, writing, or using tools. Avoiding unnecessary wrist bending and maintaining a straight or slightly bent wrist can prevent excessive pressure on the median nerve.
Incorporating regular hand and wrist exercises into your daily routine also supports flexibility and strength in these areas. Additionally, keeping your hands warm can enhance flexibility, as cold environments may lead to stiffness, further straining the hand and wrist.
How Physiotherapy Helps with Carpal Tunnel
Physiotherapy is a proven, effective treatment option for carpal tunnel syndrome, focusing on symptom relief and improved functionality. Physiotherapists utilise a variety of techniques to manage CTS.
Manual therapy, for instance, involves gentle mobilisation of the wrist joints and soft tissues to reduce pressure on the median nerve, alleviating symptoms. Nerve gliding exercises, specifically designed to help the median nerve move freely within the carpal tunnel, can also relieve pain and restore function.
Strengthening exercises that target the hand and forearm muscles are integral to improving grip and reducing the chances of future flare-ups. In addition to exercises, physiotherapists can provide education on ergonomic adjustments tailored to an individual’s needs, reducing strain on the wrist.
Physiotherapy offers a non-surgical approach that can be tailored to each patient, making it an accessible and sustainable solution to managing CTS symptoms.
Exercises to Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Including certain exercises in your routine can enhance wrist flexibility and muscle strength, helping to prevent CTS symptoms.
- A wrist flexor stretch, for example, involves extending one arm in front with the palm facing up and gently pulling the fingers back towards the body. Holding this stretch for 15 to 30 seconds helps relieve tension in the wrist area.
- The wrist extensor stretch works similarly; extending the arm with the palm facing down and bending the wrist while applying slight pressure with the other hand helps maintain wrist flexibility.
- Median nerve glides are also beneficial for CTS prevention, as they involve moving the arm and wrist in a way that reduces pressure on the nerve. To perform this exercise, start with your arm at your side, palm facing up, and slowly extend the elbow while bending the wrist back.
Finger flexion and extension exercises, where you make a fist, hold for a few seconds, then spread the fingers wide, can be equally effective. Regularly performing these exercises can enhance wrist flexibility and reduce the risk of developing CTS symptoms.
Why Choose Coast Sport for Carpal Tunnel Treatment?
Coast Sport is dedicated to offering top-quality physiotherapy for carpal tunnel syndrome. Our team of highly experienced physiotherapists uses the latest evidence-based practices to treat CTS, creating personalised treatment plans that cater to each individual’s unique needs.
Coast Sport adopts a holistic approach, treating not only the symptoms but also addressing underlying causes. This comprehensive treatment includes ergonomic assessments and adjustments, ensuring patients receive well-rounded care.
Book an appointment at Coast Sport by calling (02) 4356 2588 or book online via the button below.
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