Carpal tunnel syndrome affects many people, and because those afflicted with it usually use their hands a lot, they have to deal with pain every single day. A physical therapy specialist in our clinic provides carpal tunnel syndrome treatment in Flatbush.  Chance are we will be able to provide relief for this condition.

Carpal tunnel is a nerve issue. There’s a small area called the carpal tunnel that the median nerve runs through in the wrist area. Because it’s such a small space, some conditions can cause pressure on the nerve, resulting in pain or tingling in the wrist, thumb and first three fingers. Those most at risk for this type of problem are those who use repetitive hand movements, such as those who type a lot or do assembly work. Certain health conditions, such as hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or pregnancy also make a person pre-disposed to having issues with carpal tunnel syndrome.

A visit to a general practitioner usually results in a prescription for drugs and rest.  If symptoms persist, many times surgery is suggested.

Research Supports Physical Therapy as a Front Line Treatment

When it comes to choosing surgery or physical therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), studies have found most people would rather pursue a conservative approach. Now new research from Spain is providing more support for that preference, concluding that in terms of pain and function, physical therapy is equal to surgery at 6 and 12 months after baseline, and actually produces greater improvements earlier on.

In a study e-published ahead of print in the Journal of Pain (abstract only available for free) researchers compared pain and function reports from 111 women who underwent either surgery (56 participants) or physical therapy (55 participants) for CTS. Using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), and the Global Rating of Change assessment, they analyzed reports at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery or therapy.

The study found that when it came to self-reported current level of pain and worst pain over the preceding week, the physical therapy participants reported higher decreases on the 11-point pain scale at 1 month (an average 2-point difference from the surgery group) and at 3 months (an average 1.3-point difference). By 6 months, those differences had lessened and were practically nonexistent after 1 year.

A similar pattern was uncovered when researchers analyzed BCTQ data, with the physical therapy participants registering significant improvements compared with the surgery group in the first month, decreased but notable differences in month 3, and minimal differences at 6 and 12 months.  

Reference: https://www.apta.org/PTinMotion/News/2015/8/19/CarpalTunnel/

Conservative Before Aggressive

Before going down that road, there are other options to explore. At MBF Rehab, we offer hand therapy that often helps those who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome. Our physical therapists can work with patients to find exercises that will provide relief without surgical intervention. Clients will also be given strategies to find relief at home or at work on their own. Sometimes, massage therapy is also an effective, drug-free treatment for this condition. Patients who come in with carpal tunnel can expect to leave with less pain, and hope for a solution.

If you’ve been dealing with carpal tunnel on a daily basis and are struggling through the pain, contact us. We can provide a treatment that will alleviate symptoms without having to think about surgical intervention.

affects many people, and because those afflicted with it usually use their hands a lot, they have to deal with pain every single day. A physical therapy specialist in Flatbush may be able to provide relief for this condition.

Carpal tunnel is a nerve issue. There’s a small area called the carpal tunnel that the median nerve runs through in the wrist area. Because it’s such a small space, some conditions can cause pressure on the nerve, resulting in pain or tingling in the wrist, thumb and first three fingers. Those most at risk for this type of problem are those who use repetitive hand movements, such as those who type a lot or do assembly work. Certain health conditions, such as hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or pregnancy also make a person pre-disposed to having issues with carpal tunnel syndrome.

A visit to a general practitioner usually results in a prescription for anti-inflammatories and some advice to stop and stretch the hands and wrists frequently. Some may also suggest wearing a splint, which could interfere with work. If symptoms persist, many times surgery is suggested.

Before going down that road, there are other options to explore. At MBF Rehab, we offer hand therapy that often helps those who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome. Our physical therapists can work with patients to find exercises that will provide relief without surgical intervention. Clients will also be given strategies to find relief at home or at work on their own. Sometimes, massage therapy is also an effective, drug-free treatment for this condition. Patients who come in with carpal tunnel can expect to leave with less pain, and hope for a solution.

If you’ve been dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome on a daily basis and are struggling through the pain, contact us. We can provide a treatment that will alleviate symptoms without having to think about surgical intervention.