How effective is physiotherapy for carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome involves pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the wrist. A physiotherapist may assess sensation, grip, wrist movement and tasks that trigger tingling or night discomfort. Treatment can include gentle nerve and tendon movements, advice about a neutral wrist position, ergonomic changes, and gradual strengthening when irritation settles. These measures may reduce strain and help you use the hand more comfortably, but they do not remove every possible cause of nerve compression. Persistent numbness or weakness needs medical review because more advanced compression may require a different approach.

Attend an assessment so exercises match your symptoms rather than copying a generic wrist routine. Practise the prescribed movements regularly and stop or report exercises that increase pins and needles, burning or lasting pain. Keep the wrist as straight as practical during sleep and during keyboard, tool or phone use. Take short movement breaks and avoid leaning the wrist against a hard edge. A splint, activity adjustment or medical treatment may be combined with physiotherapy when appropriate.

Arrange prompt medical assessment if numbness becomes constant, grip strength is worsening, objects are frequently dropped, or the thumb muscles appear smaller. Seek urgent care after a sudden loss of hand strength or sensation, or if symptoms follow a serious injury. If a supervised plan is not improving function or night symptoms, contact the clinician who diagnosed you so the diagnosis and next step can be reassessed.

Could my symptoms indicate another nerve or tendon problem? Which activities should I change while the nerve is irritated? How will we measure improvement in sensation and grip? When should I consider a splint, injection or surgical opinion?