Carpal tunnel exercises

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition associated with compression of the median nerve at the wrist. This tight space is bounded by the bones of the wrist on one side and an elastic structure called the transverse carpal ligament on the other. When there is inflammation, swelling or other changes in this space, the median nerve can be compressed, leading to the characteristic symptoms that cause carpal tunnel.

What are the causes and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?

The causes of carpal tunnel syndrome can be varied, including anatomical factors (for example, a small carpal tunnel), diseases that increase the risk of swelling in the area (such as diabetes, thyroid disease, obesity), pregnancy, trauma, and repetitive movements of the hand or wrist that can lead to strain and inflammation.
Carpal tunnel can include: tingling, numbness and pain in the fingers, except for the little finger, as it is innervated by a different nerve. The pain can radiate to the hand or even the arm. This is accompanied by weakness in grip or difficulty performing precise movements, such as writing or buttoning.

What is the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome?

Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome can include both non-operative and operative methods. Non-operative methods include, for example, rest, avoidance of activities that cause symptoms, use of a wrist stabilizing orthosis, anti-inflammatory medications and rehabilitation. In cases where these methods do not provide relief, surgical treatment is considered, which involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
You can read more about the causes, symptoms and treatment in our article “Carpal tunnel syndrome.”

How does carpal tunnel rehabilitation work?

Carpal tunnel syndrome rehabilitation is an important part of treatment, both before and after possible surgery, aiming to reduce symptoms, improve hand and wrist function and prevent recurrence. The rehabilitation process can include various methods and techniques, depending on the individual patient's needs and the severity of the condition.

• Rest - avoiding activities that may worsen symptoms is important, especially in the early stages of treatment. This may mean changing the way daily activities are performed or temporarily limiting work that requires repetitive movements of the wrist.
• Using an orthosis - Wearing a wrist orthosis, especially at night, can help stabilize the wrist and reduce pressure on the median nerve, helping to reduce pain and discomfort.
• Stretching and strengthening exercises - specially selected exercises can improve range of motion, reduce stiffness, and strengthen the muscles of the hand and forearm, helping to reduce symptoms and improve wrist function.
• Manual therapy - techniques such as massage, nerve and soft tissue mobilization can be used to increase nerve tissue mobility, reduce tension and improve circulation.
• Education - making the patient aware of ergonomics and changes in daily activities can help prevent future problems.
• Taking medications - treatment may include the use of painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications in consultation with the doctor to manage pain during rehabilitation.

The duration and intensity of rehabilitation may vary on a case-by-case basis. It is important to work closely with a good physiotherapist, and follow recommendations regularly to achieve the best results. If, despite non-surgical methods, symptoms persist, an orthopedic doctor may suggest surgical treatment, after which rehabilitation is also necessary to fully regain wrist function.

Exercises for carpal tunnel to perform at home

1. carpal tunnel exercise - “Mime movements” - alternate bending and straightening of the arms with dorsal flexion of the wrists (the fingers of the hand pointed upward).



2. carpal tunnel exercise - “Prayer” - position as for prayer, elbows at shoulder height, head motionless, movement in the shoulder joints moving the hands to the left and right.



3. exercise for the carpal tunnel - “Throwing a ball” - imitation of throwing a tennis ball in a lower way.



4. carpal tunnel exercise - “Falen's test” - hands joined dorsally with fingers down, elbows at shoulder height, hold the position for 30 to 60 seconds.



5. carpal tunnel exercise - “Throwing yo-yo” - straightening at the elbow joint imitating the release of the yo-yo.



6. carpal tunnel exercise - “Waiter” - the hand visited at the shoulder joint and bent at the elbow joint and wrist, we make a lunge at the elbow joint.

Related Articles:

• Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
• Learn about other possible causes of wrist pain.

Bibliography:

• Medical News Today - 7 hand exercises for carpal tunnel syndrome with pictures - Medically reviewed by Gregory Minnis, DPT, Physical Therapy — By Beth Sissons — Updated on January 16, 2024
• Web MD - Best Exercises for Carpal Tunnel - Medically Reviewed by Carol DerSarkissian, MD on January 08, 2023 Written by WebMD
• Healthline - Exercises for Treating Carpal Tunnel - Medically reviewed by Gregory Minnis, DPT, Physical Therapy — By Kirsten Schofield — Updated on July 2, 2021