Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve gets compressed or pinched at the wrist. Symptoms include numbness, tingling and/or burning into the hand (usually felt in the palm of the hand, thumb, index, middle and part of the ring fingers) often times occurring at night. You may also experience an ache or pain in the wrist and hand, weakness of the hand, difficulty gripping or holding objects, and atrophy of your thumb muscles.
Physical therapy can help treat this condition. Treatment may include techniques to reduce the inflammation around the median nerve at the wrist, mobilization of the joints in the neck and upper extremity, exercises to mobilize the nerve and re-strengthen the muscles in the neck, upper extremity, wrist and hand. Ergonomic and postural assessments and recommendations may also be performed. Other treatments may include braces, night splints and/or taping for the wrist and hand. Surgical carpal tunnel release is another option if the condition does not respond to conservative techniques.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please visit your doctor and/or physical therapist to determine the diagnosis and proper treatment plan for you.