Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

We often find that this is over diagnosed and that often the arm and hand pain (and weakness) is actually being caused by a tendinopathy that is fully treatable with physiotherapy.

However, true carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by irritation of the median nerve that runs though the wrist joint which results in pins and needles, weakness and pain in the arm and hand. The best way to treat carpal is to make changes to the way the wrist is being used to reduce the irritation of the nerve. This may include taping, wearing a splint, massage and acupuncture.

In fact often the wrist is being used excessively because there is weakness or instability in the shoulder. Therefore adjusting how the hand, wrist and shoulder are being used can be very effective.

If these measures do not work then injections or can be considered but can have variable results.