Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels through the wrist. It often develops gradually, with symptoms like numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, especially at night or during repetitive tasks. Left untreated, it can interfere with work, sleep, and everyday activities like typing, gripping, or lifting.
At Sparq Physical Therapy in Castle Rock, CO, we take a hands-on approach to treating carpal tunnel syndrome. Our goal is to relieve pressure on the nerve, restore proper movement in the wrist and hand, and help you avoid surgery whenever possible.
Affected Area
Carpal tunnel syndrome affects the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Compression here can cause symptoms in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. It may also lead to dysfunction in the forearm, shoulder, and neck due to postural compensation or referred tension.
Symptoms
Symptoms include numbness, tingling, burning, or pain in the fingers—especially at night or when using the hand. You may also experience weakness, frequent dropping of objects, or difficulty with fine motor tasks like buttoning a shirt or holding a pen. In more advanced cases, hand muscles may begin to atrophy.
Treatments
Physical therapy can effectively reduce symptoms and improve hand function without surgery. At Sparq PT, we create a personalized treatment plan that addresses both the symptoms and their underlying causes. Treatment may include:
Nerve gliding exercises to promote healthy movement of the median nerve
Manual therapy to release tension in the wrist, forearm, and neck
Postural correction to reduce strain on the upper body during daily tasks
Wrist and hand strengthening exercises to improve support and endurance
Ergonomic education for workstations, sleep positioning, and daily activity modification
With consistent care and the right approach, many patients experience lasting relief and improved hand function, without the need for injections or surgery.