Elbow & Wrist

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed within the carpal tunnel. This can occur due to a trauma or swelling in the area. CTS occurs more often in women than men in the 4th– 5th decade of life. CTS can lead to pain, numbness and weakness in the hand.  Commonly, CTS can have a cervical spine component which can cause or contribute to the dysfunction.  Non operative treatment options for this include night splints and activity/ergonomic modifications. The cervical spine will also be a focus of treatment to address any contributing factors.

Following immobilization from a wrist or hand fracture physical therapy is important for regaining range of motion and strength.  This can be accomplished through a combination of manual therapy techniques and exercises that are prescribed to you by your physical therapist to restore joint mobility and improve soft tissue mobility and strength.

When tendon injuries occur they can occur with either a partial tear or a complete rupture. A rupture will require surgical intervention due to disruption of the entire tendon. Depending on the grade of a tear, it can be treated in physical therapy. Injuries to a tendon can occur either through a traumatic event or due to overuse. With these injuries patients may be experiencing pain, weakness and a loss in range of motion of the affected joint. Therapy for injuries to tendons in the wrist and hand may include exercises to strengthen, manual therapy to improve range of motion and decrease pain as well as splinting.  

Osteoarthritis is a condition that typically affects women> men 45 years or older. It is characterized by pain in the joint line as well as a limited range of motion in the affected joint. Common treatment options for this include manual therapy techniques, exercise and education on ways to avoid aggravating activities while still maintaining an active lifestyle.  An overall wellness plan is beneficial in helping to slow the progression of arthritis which works on improving nutrition and fitness.

Typically ligamentous sprains in the wrist and hand occur due to a repetitive mechanism or a trauma.  Sprains can produce pain and instability at the site of the injured ligament.  They are graded on a scale of 1-3 where less severe sprains can be managed by conservative treatments. Treatment options may include splinting, manual therapy, and exercises to help assist in the healing process of the affected ligament.