Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Symptoms, Treatment, and Physiotherapy
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. It leads to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, especially affecting the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Repetitive wrist movements (e.g., typing, mouse use)
- Wrist fractures or arthritis narrowing the carpal tunnel
- Pregnancy (due to fluid retention)
- Diabetes or thyroid disorders
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Numbness or tingling in fingers (especially at night)
- Weak grip strength
- Hand clumsiness and dropping objects
- Pain that may radiate up the forearm
Differential Diagnosis
- Cervical Radiculopathy
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
- Pronator Teres Syndrome
- Ulnar nerve entrapment
Physiotherapy Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Johar Town Lahore
Our physiotherapy clinic in Johar Town, Lahore, offers expert care for CTS. Treatments may include:
- Wrist splinting (especially at night)
- Manual therapy for wrist joint and soft tissue release
- Ultrasound and TENS for pain relief
- Median nerve gliding and tendon gliding exercises
- Posture correction and ergonomic advice
Exercises for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Tendon Gliding Exercises: These help improve the movement of tendons within the carpal tunnel.
Median Nerve Mobilization: Gently mobilizes the median nerve to reduce symptoms.
Precautions
- Avoid repetitive wrist flexion or extension
- Do not ignore early symptoms
- Take breaks during prolonged computer or manual work
- Maintain proper wrist alignment
FAQs – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Wearing a wrist splint, applying ice, and avoiding repetitive strain are the quickest ways to relieve symptoms. Physiotherapy can accelerate recovery.
Experienced physiotherapists in Johar Town, Lahore offer specialized care. Look for practitioners with experience in nerve rehabilitation and hand therapy.
Mild cases can improve with rest and lifestyle changes, but most cases benefit significantly from physiotherapy intervention.
Recovery time varies from 3 to 8 weeks with physiotherapy, depending on severity and patient compliance.
Surgery is only considered if conservative treatments like physiotherapy and splinting fail to improve symptoms.
Tendon gliding and nerve mobilization exercises can relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence when done consistently.
Overuse of the wrist, poor ergonomics, and fluid retention are common triggers for symptom flare-ups.
Yes, it can affect one or both hands, especially in people with bilateral repetitive hand use.
Yes, due to narrower carpal tunnels and hormonal influences, women are at higher risk of developing CTS.
Yes, diabetes can contribute to nerve inflammation and compression, increasing the risk of CTS.
Yes, but avoid weightlifting that strains the wrist. Consult a physiotherapist for modifications.
Yes, due to hormonal changes and fluid retention. It usually resolves after childbirth.
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, nerve conduction studies, and physical tests like Phalen’s and Tinel’s.
Yes, soft tissue release and myofascial techniques can reduce tension around the carpal tunnel.
Yes, home physiotherapy services are available in Lahore, especially in Johar Town, for patients who prefer in-home care.