Does physiotherapy treat carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome involves pressure on the median nerve as it passes through a narrow space at the wrist. Tingling, numbness, aching or reduced grip may affect the hand, especially during sleep or repeated wrist use. A physiotherapist can review wrist position, tendon and nerve movement, grip demands and work tasks. Treatment may include activity changes, a night wrist splint, carefully selected exercises and education about reducing sustained wrist bending.

Keep frequently used tools and devices positioned so your wrist is as neutral as possible. Take brief movement breaks from gripping or vibrating tasks, and avoid testing numbness by repeatedly squeezing hard. Use a splint only as advised, because fit and timing matter. Physiotherapy is most useful when the diagnosis and severity are clear; ongoing numbness, dropping objects or weakness may require a doctor to assess the nerve and discuss other treatment.

Arrange medical review promptly if numbness is constant, grip is weakening, the thumb muscles look smaller, or hand coordination is deteriorating. Urgent assessment is appropriate after a serious injury, with a cold or discoloured hand, or with sudden weakness affecting more than the hand. These signs should not be managed with exercises alone.

Ask whether the symptoms fit carpal tunnel syndrome or another nerve problem, whether a splint or nerve testing is appropriate, and how to protect your work and sleep. Ask when physiotherapy should be reassessed if sensation does not return.