Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers. It occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the wrist.

Physiotherapy provides effective non-surgical treatment options for managing symptoms and improving hand function.

Anatomy and Biomechanics 

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist made up of bones and ligaments. The median nerve, which controls sensation and movement in parts of the hand, passes through this tunnel.

When the space in the tunnel becomes reduced—due to swelling, repetitive strain, or wrist positioning—the nerve can become compressed.

Common contributing factors include:

• Repetitive hand and wrist use

• Prolonged typing or gripping

• Poor wrist positioning

• Inflammation in surrounding tissues

Signs and Symptoms

Typical symptoms include:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers

• Hand weakness or reduced grip strength

• Pain in the wrist or hand

• Symptoms that worsen at night

• Difficulty with fine motor tasks

How Physiotherapy Helps

Physiotherapy focuses on reducing nerve irritation and improving wrist mechanics.

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Treatment May Include:

• Nerve gliding exercises

• Wrist and forearm strengthening

• Manual therapy for the wrist and forearm

• Education on ergonomics and posture

• Activity modification

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Carpal Tunnel

With appropriate treatment, physiotherapy can:

• Reduce pain and numbness

• Improve hand strength and function

• Prevent worsening of symptoms

• Help patients avoid or delay surgery