Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through a narrow tunnel in the wrist. This compression can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand. Physical therapy helps reduce nerve irritation, improve wrist mobility, and restore hand function.

Do you experience pain, numbness, or tingling in your wrist and hand? These symptoms may indicate carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition affecting many individuals in Washington, DC.

At Rose Physical Therapy, with convenient locations in Navy Yard, Friendship Heights, and Farragut North, our experienced physical therapists specialize in diagnosing and treating carpal tunnel syndrome to help you regain comfort, strength, and normal hand function.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway located on the palm side of the wrist. This tunnel contains the median nerve and several tendons that control finger movement.

Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the median nerve becomes compressed or irritated within this confined space.

The median nerve provides sensation and movement to:

The thumb
The index finger
The middle finger
Part of the ring finger

When this nerve becomes compressed, it can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Any condition that increases pressure within the carpal tunnel or reduces space for the median nerve can lead to symptoms.

Common causes include:

Repetitive wrist and hand movements (typing, assembly work, instrument playing)
Wrist fractures or trauma
Prolonged wrist positioning or leaning on the wrists
Sleeping with the wrists bent
Fluid retention during pregnancy
Diabetes or thyroid disorders
Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
Naturally smaller carpal tunnel anatomy

Work activities involving repetitive hand use can significantly increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time.

Common symptoms include:

Pain or aching in the wrist, palm, or fingers
Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger
Burning or electric shock-like sensations in the hand
Weakness when gripping or holding objects
Difficulty performing fine motor tasks
Increased symptoms at night
Temporary relief when shaking the hand or wrist

Without treatment, symptoms may progress and begin affecting hand strength and coordination.

How Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Is Diagnosed

At Rose Physical Therapy, diagnosis begins with a comprehensive evaluation.

Your physical therapist may assess:

History and onset of your symptoms
Activities that worsen or relieve symptoms
Wrist and hand range of motion
Grip strength and hand function
Nerve irritation through specific clinical tests

These assessments help determine whether the median nerve is being compressed at the wrist or if symptoms may originate elsewhere in the arm or neck.

In some cases, additional testing may be recommended, such as:

Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies
These tests measure nerve activity and help determine the severity and location of nerve compression.

Physical Therapy Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

At Rose Physical Therapy, treatment focuses on reducing nerve compression while improving wrist mobility and hand strength.

Your treatment plan may include:

Education and Activity Modification

Your therapist will explain how carpal tunnel syndrome develops and provide strategies to reduce strain during daily activities.

Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques to improve wrist movement and reduce pressure on the median nerve.

This may include:

Joint mobilization of the wrist
Soft tissue mobilization of the forearm muscles

Nerve Gliding Exercises

Specific exercises designed to improve the mobility of the median nerve as it moves through the carpal tunnel.

Strengthening Exercises

Targeted exercises for the wrist, hand, and forearm muscles to support long-term function.

Personalized Home Exercise Program

You will receive a customized home program including stretching, strengthening, and nerve mobility exercises to continue your progress outside the clinic.