Wrist pain can interfere with everything from brushing your teeth to washing your hair, to typing to driving. The pain also tends to be accompanied by weakness in the wrist.
These wrist issues can result from different factors, but carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common. If the wrist pain is in its early stages, you have various noninvasive treatment options to help address it – including physical therapy.
Let’s talk about what you need to know about carpal tunnel syndrome and wrist physical therapy, and where you can go in the greater Austin area for outstanding hand therapy and wrist therapy.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
This condition occurs when there is pressure on one of your upper limb nerves, called the median nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome is essentially due to a pinched nerve in the wrist – a pinched median nerve.
The median nerve runs from your upper arm to your hand. It also controls the movement and feeling in your thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of your ring finger. (The ulnar nerve controls the other half of your ring finger and your pinkie.)
The carpal tunnel is a slender, bony passageway (tunnel) inside your wrist (carpal bones) where some tendons and the median nerve reside. When the tissues around this passageway swell and become inflamed, it puts pressure on the median nerve. This condition often results from repetitive motion, or applying repetitive or constant pressure on the wrist.
This wrist condition typically causes mild to moderate symptoms that tend to come and go, especially in the early stages. Over time, if left unaddressed, it can cause persistent and severe symptoms, and even permanent disability of the hand.
The most common signs of carpal tunnel syndrome are pain in your hand and wrist, as well as tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hand and fingers. These symptoms are usually worse at night.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can make it difficult to grip things or make a fist. It may also cause you to drop what you’re holding. In severe cases, the condition can make it hard to differentiate between hot and cold.
Wrist Physical Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Whether you have been diagnosed by a doctor with carpal tunnel syndrome or you suspect that you’re developing the disorder (or something similar), it’s key to stop it from developing further by participating in physical therapy. You may even be able to reverse its effects if it is addressed early.
Physical therapy, especially hand therapy, can help to reduce inflammation and swelling around the median nerve in the wrist. It can also help strengthen the muscles and tendons in your hand and wrist area.
Your physical therapist will create a custom therapy plan for you. This program may include:
- Exercises to stretch and strengthen your muscles
- Manual therapy and massage to reduce inflammation and foster proper circulation
- Learning how and when to wear your wrist splint
Additionally, your physical therapist can teach you how to avoid activities that may aggravate the condition. They can also provide you with ergonomic devices and techniques to help you at work or home.
Physical Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Austin, TX
Wrist physical therapy and hand therapy can not only help relieve your symptoms, but it can also possibly help you avoid the need for surgery. If you are considering physical therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome, you can trust Endeavor Physical Therapy & Wellness. We have trained, experienced, and compassionate physical therapists who are here to help you get the use of your hand back and to relieve the debilitating hand pain.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, call us today at (512) 213-1092 or fill out our convenient online request form now. We have convenient physical therapy locations in Austin, Manor, Kyle, San Marcos, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Hutto, and Bee Cave. We look forward to serving you!
