Hand Therapy, Evanston, IL Can Help with Managing Symptoms from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common conditions affecting the hand and wrist, often caused by repetitive use, prolonged postures, or underlying health conditions such as arthritis in the hands. Diabetes and pregnancy are other common causes. Whether you’re waking up with numb fingers, feeling tingling while typing, or experiencing weakness in your grip, the impact on daily life can be frustrating and limiting.
That’s where working with a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) especially one trained as an Occupational Therapist (OT) can make all the difference.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
CTS occurs when a nerve called the median nerve becomes “pinched” as it travels through a narrow passageway in the wrist. The tendons that allow the fingers and thumb to grip also occupy this space called the carpal tunnel. This pressure can lead to symptoms such as:
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
- Hand weakness or frequent dropping of objects
- Pain or discomfort that worsens with repetitive tasks or sleep
Early treatment is key to preventing long-term nerve damage and conservative, non-surgical therapy is often the first and most effective approach.
Why See a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT)?
A CHT is an occupational therapist with advanced training, education, and experience in treating conditions of the upper extremity, specifically the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. This specialty ensures that your therapist understands the complexity of hand anatomy, function, and recovery.
Here’s how a CHT can support you through carpal tunnel recovery:
Personalized Splinting for Symptom Relief
One of the most effective early interventions for CTS is wrist splinting and gentle exercise. A CHT will:
- Recommend a splint to position your wrist in the most comfortable resting position
- Determine whether you need a splint that also quiets the gripping muscles in the fingers
- Provide exercises to glide tendons that occupy the tunnel
- Utilize elastic tape to decompress the nerve as an alternative to a splint
Activity and Ergonomic Modifications
Many CTS symptoms are worsened by specific repetitive motions or poor posture. A CHT will evaluate how you use your hands throughout the day. Whether your routine involves computer use, doing favorite hobby of crochet or playing guitar, your hand therapist will guide you in:
- Modifying hand positions to reduce strain
- Adjusting your workspace ergonomics
- Using adaptive equipment for tasks that aggravate symptoms
- Making sure that your body alignment is optimal for the task at hand
These strategies help reduce the source of irritation and support long-term healing.
Manual Therapy to Improve Mobility and Reduce Irritation
A CHT can use hands-on techniques to address soft tissue and neural tension contributing to CTS, such as:
- Nerve gliding exercises to improve median nerve mobility
- Kinesthetic elastic taping
- Postural awareness
- Manual mobilization of the wrist, forearm, and hand muscles
- Strengthening under functioning muscles
- Evaluating for postural misalignment
- Scar management for post-operative patients
- Instructing pregnant people in strategies for symptom management and infant care
These techniques promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and restore motion.
Strengthening and Conditioning
If CTS has weakened your grip or coordination, your CHT will build a plan to gradually:
- Improve endurance and strength in the hand and forearm and upper body
- Rebuild confidence in daily tasks
All exercises are tailored to your current level and adjusted as you progress.
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
If surgery becomes necessary, your CHT is the perfect partner for your recovery. Post-operative therapy focuses on:
- Reducing post operative pain and swelling
- Managing scar tissue
- Restoring motion and building strength
- Supporting a safe and confident return to work or hobbies
Working with the same therapist before and after surgery ensures continuity of care and better outcomes. My practice ensures individualized care.
Your Hands Deserve Expert Care
Whether you’re in the early stages of carpal tunnel syndrome or recovering from surgery, partnering with an OT CHT ensures that you receive expert, individualized care designed for real-life function and not just symptom relief.
Get a Grip on Relief: Hands-On Solutions for CTS
Click the link for CHT hand therapy in Evanston, IL serving clients from Chicago and the North Shore:
Flourish Recovery & Wellness 