Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is when the Median Nerve becomes compressed and irritated as it passes through the carpal tunnel. The Median Nerve can become compressed because either the structural size of the carpal tunnel is decreased. Swelling or thickening of the tendons and their coverings can also compress on the Medial Nerve. 

Sign and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome:

• Numbness of the hand and fingers, especially after the wrist has been flexed for an extended period of time, i.e. during sleep;
• Weak grip and loss of wrist power, manifested by a tendency to drop things;
• Inability to differentiate between hot and cold based on touch
• In extreme cases, muscles at the base of the thumb may atrophy.

Risk factors associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

A variety of risk factors may contribute to the development of Carpal tunnel syndrome, such as:

• Wrist injury
• Overuse, work situation requiring rapid finger and wrist motions
• Diabetes mellitus
• Pregnancy and fluid accumulation sates
• Menopause
• Rheumatoid arthritis and other joint disorders
• Systematic inflammations

Physiotherapy Management of Carpal tunnel syndrome:

At York-Med physiotherapy, our registered physiotherapists will conduct a comprehensive and individualized assessment to identify the cause of your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and how it affects your life. They will then construct a treatment plan that is specific to you and your condition. Typically, your treatment will involve techniques designed to get the Median Nerve to move more smoothly in the Carpal Tunnel and exercise to stretch and strengthen muscles and correct the underlying cause. Your physiotherapist will educate you on any habits that may need changing to alleviate any pressure on your Median Nerve.