Physical Therapy Helps Relieve Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome affects millions of Americans each year. Factors attributed to the condition are so varied that experts are not entirely sure what causes it. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes squeezed at the wrist.

Common symptoms include:
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acute pain,
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numbness,
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stiffness,
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weakness in the fingers, wrist and hand
Any repetitive movement can result in wrist and hand pain. If physical therapy treatments fail, surgery may be the next option. Muscle weakness or nerve atrophy may necessitate surgery.
Treatment should be decided on a case-by-case basis, mild cases may be treated by applying:
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cold packs,
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taking frequent breaks,
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splinting your wrist,
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cortisone injections,
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manual therapy
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and activity modification.
Manual therapy techniques have improved hand and wrist function and reduced pain in effectively treating carpal tunnel syndrome. Simple stretch exercises movements throughout the day are easy and have proven to protect your wrists and hands from this condition.
Wrist Exercises To Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
HAND STRETCHES

1. Start with your hands together in prayer position.
2. Spread fingers apart as far you can, then “steeple” the fingers by separating palms of hands, but keeping fingers together.
SHAKE HANDS OUT

STRETCH AMRSTRONG

1. Place one arm straight out in front of you, elbow straight, with your wrist extended and fingers facing the floor.
2. Spread your fingers slightly and use your other hand to apply gentle pressure to the downward-facing hand, stretching your wrist and fingers as far as you’re able.
3. When you reach your maximum point of flexibility, hold this position for about 20 seconds.
4. Switch hands and repeat.