What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Posted on: September 6, 2023

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that makes your hand and wrist hurt or feel numb. People usually use medications, wrist braces, or even surgery to get relief. But did you know there’s another way to treat it? A recent study shows that neurodynamic techniques can be a great option.

The Question – Can Physical Therapy Techniques Help with CTS?

The scientists wanted to find out if neurodynamic techniques (also called nerve mobilizations) could be a good treatment for mild to moderate CTS. They compared it to a fake “sham therapy” treatment to see which works better.

How Was the Study Done?

The study was carefully designed and included 250 volunteers, 150 of whom had CTS. They were divided into two groups. One group got the neurodynamic techniques, and the other got the sham therapy. Both groups had treatment twice a week for a total of 20 sessions.

What Are Neurodynamic Techniques?

In simple terms, neurodynamic techniques are special exercises that help your nerves move better. The exercises involve gliding and sliding movements that aim to improve how your nerves function.

What Did They Measure?

The study used a patient questionnaire to check how bad the symptoms were and how well the hand and wrist were working.

The group that got the neurodynamic techniques showed a lot of improvement. They felt less pain, their nerves worked better, and they could use their hands more effectively. The sham therapy group didn’t see these kinds of improvements.

So, Are Neurodynamic Techniques Better?

Yes, the study found that neurodynamic techniques are better than sham therapy for treating mild to moderate CTS. This means these techniques could be the first thing you try if you have CTS.

Why Physical Therapy is a Great Choice

Physical therapist-guided treatment, especially neurodynamic techniques, can be a good way to treat CTS. It’s often the best first choice for most pain and issues with your muscles and bones. It doesn’t involve taking medications, getting injections, or going through surgery.

Need Help? Contact Us!

If you’re dealing with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or any other muscle and bone issues, our physical therapy practice is here to help. We can create a personalized treatment plan just for you.

If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you live a life without pain.

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