Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome can be done with medications, compresses, physical therapy, steroids and surgery, and should usually be started when the first symptoms appear, such as tingling in the hands or difficulty in holding objects because of a feeling of weakness in the hands . Know other signs that indicate the presence of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Generally, mild symptoms can be relieved only with rest, avoiding activities that overwhelm the hands and worsen the symptoms. However, it may be necessary to take the treatment with:
- Cold compresses on the wrist to reduce swelling and relieve the sensation of pricks and tingling in the hands;
- Tala rigid to immobilize the wrist, especially while sleeping, reducing the discomfort caused by the syndrome;
- Physiotherapy, where devices, exercises, massages and mobilizations can be used to cure the syndrome;
- Anti-inflammatory medicines, such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen, to reduce inflammation in the wrist and relieve symptoms;
- Injection of corticosteroids into the carpal tunnel to reduce local swelling and relieve pain and discomfort during the month.
However, in more severe cases where it is not possible to control the symptoms with these types of treatments, it may be necessary to have surgery to cut the carpus ligament and relieve pressure on the affected nerve. Learn more at: Carpal tunnel surgery.
Physiotherapy Exercises to Relieve Symptoms
Although they can be done at home, these exercises should always be directed by a physiotherapist to adjust the exercises to the symptoms presented.
Exercise 1
Start with your hand stretched out and then close it until you touch it with your fingers on the palm of your hand. Then fold your clawed fingers and return to the position with your hand stretched out, as shown in the picture. Do 10 reps, 2 to 3 times a day.
Exercise 2
Bend your hand forward and stretch your fingers, then bend your wrist back and close your hand, as the picture shows. Repeat 10 times, 2 to 3 times a day.
Exercise 3
Stretch your arm and fold your hand back, pulling your fingers back with your other hand, as the picture shows. Repeat the exercise 10 times, 2 to 3 times a day.
See other tips in the following video on how to relieve pain in the wrist:
Signs of Improvement of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Signs of improvement of carpal tunnel syndrome appear about 2 weeks after initiation of treatment and include decreased tingling episodes on the hands and relief of difficulty in holding objects.
Signs of worsening carpal tunnel syndrome
Signs of worsening of the tunnel syndrome usually include difficulty holding small objects, such as pens or keys, or moving the hand. In addition, it can also cause difficulty sleeping because the symptoms worsen at night.
