The wrist contains a natural passageway called the Carpal Tunnel, which is an opening for the many tendons of the forearm that connect to the hand and fingers. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when one of the main nerves of the arm (the median nerve) is compressed in the wrist. When irritated, the sheaths of these tendons swell, therefore decreasing the space within the tunnel. As a result of this compression, numbness, pain, decreased function, and decreased dexterity to the hand and fingers often occurs. An exact cause for CTS is not known, although women who are pregnant and people who perform repetitive tasks involving the hands for a prolonged period of time are at increased risk.

Several conservative treatment options are available for CTS. Immediate relief from symptoms often occurs through the use of custom splinting, which your doctor may prescribe. Splinting of the hand in a neutral position often provides rest and comfort to the ailing hand by reducing the compression in the wrist that irritates the nerves.

Your physician may order nerve conduction testing (to determine the degree of impingement) or prescribe anti-inflammatory medications. Although this medication can provide pain relief from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, hand therapy is often prescribed to help treat the root cause of the condition. A comprehensive program of exercises stretches (including techniques to glide the median nerve), modalities, and other treatments can be highly effective in treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

In more severe cases where conservative measures such as therapy have not alleviated the condition, surgery may be required. Carpal Tunnel Release surgery. This surgery involves cutting the Transverse Carpal Ligament in the Carpal Tunnel opening to relieve the compression on the nerves and tendons. Carpal Tunnel Release surgery has become a common and successful procedure. Following surgery, a comprehensive therapy program may be prescribed to help regain range of motion, strength, and function to the hand and wrist.