Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Richmond, BC — How Physiotherapy Can Help You Recover

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common nerve-related wrist conditions, affecting countless people who spend long hours working at computers, driving, or performing repetitive hand motions. At Proactive Health in Richmond, BC, our physiotherapists specialize in carpal tunnel treatment using evidence-based, hands-on techniques that reduce pain, improve wrist mobility, and prevent recurrence.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve — a key nerve that runs through the wrist — becomes compressed inside the carpal tunnel, a narrow passage formed by bones and ligaments. This compression can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers.

While desk work is a common trigger, other causes include:

• Repetitive wrist or hand movements (typing, gripping, or lifting)

• Poor posture or prolonged wrist flexion

• Swelling due to arthritis, fluid retention, or injury

• Hormonal or metabolic changes (e.g., pregnancy, diabetes, thyroid issues)

Common Symptoms

Symptoms often start gradually and worsen over time. Common signs of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, or middle fingers

• Weakness when gripping objects

• Wrist or forearm pain that radiates up the arm

• Nighttime discomfort or waking up with a “pins and needles” sensation

If untreated, CTS can lead to long-term nerve damage and muscle weakness, so early assessment is key.

How Physiotherapy in Richmond, BC Can Help

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. At Proactive Health, our physiotherapists focus on restoring nerve mobility, improving strength, and addressing the root causes of your pain to prevent it from returning.

1. Hands-On Therapy and Soft Tissue Release

Manual therapy techniques gently mobilize the wrist and surrounding tissues, relieving tension on the median nerve and improving circulation.

2. Median Nerve Glides and Mobility Exercises

Targeted nerve gliding exercises help restore the normal movement of the median nerve through the wrist tunnel, reducing irritation and promoting healing.

3. Strengthening and Postural Correction

Strengthening the wrist, forearm, and shoulder muscles supports proper movement patterns and reduces pressure on the carpal tunnel — especially important for those with desk jobs.

4. Ergonomic Assessment and Education

Our Richmond physiotherapists provide ergonomic advice on workstation setup, wrist positioning, and daily activity modifications to help prevent flare-ups.

5. Modalities and Pain Management

Depending on your needs, your physiotherapist may use ultrasound, wrist taping, or cold therapy to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms during recovery.

When to See a Physiotherapist

If you experience consistent wrist tingling, numbness, or pain that interferes with typing, writing, or gripping, don’t ignore the signs. Early physiotherapy intervention can often prevent the need for surgical treatment and help restore normal function faster.

Can You Treat Carpal Tunnel Without Surgery?

Yes, many cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be effectively treated without surgery through conservative care such as physiotherapy, ergonomic adjustments, and exercise. At Proactive Health in Richmond, BC, our physiotherapists use evidence-based methods to relieve nerve compression and restore wrist function naturally.

Non-surgical treatment focuses on:

• Manual therapy and nerve gliding exercises to reduce pressure on the median nerve

• Strengthening and posture correction to support proper wrist alignment

• Wrist bracing or taping to stabilize the joint and prevent aggravation

• Ergonomic modifications to reduce repetitive strain

In most mild to moderate cases, consistent physiotherapy and lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce symptoms and help you avoid surgical intervention altogether.

Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can range from mild tingling to chronic pain and muscle weakness. The right treatment depends on how severe your symptoms are, how long you’ve had them, and what activities aggravate your condition. The goal of treatment is to reduce pressure on the median nerve, relieve pain, and restore proper wrist and hand function.

At Proactive Health in Richmond, BC, our physiotherapists take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to Carpal Tunnel care — combining manual therapy, exercise, and education to achieve long-term results.

1. Physiotherapy and Manual Therapy

Physiotherapy is often the first line of defence for treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome without surgery. A physiotherapist can assess the root cause of your nerve compression — whether it’s repetitive strain, poor wrist mechanics, or muscle tightness — and build a plan around it.

Treatment may include:

• Manual therapy to release tension in the forearm, wrist, and neck muscles that can contribute to nerve compression.

• Median nerve gliding exercises help restore normal movement of the nerve through the carpal tunnel, reducing pain and numbness.

• Joint mobilizations to improve wrist flexibility and alignment.

• Strengthening and postural training to correct muscle imbalances that often accompany desk work or repetitive hand use.

Regular physiotherapy sessions help relieve symptoms, improve circulation, and prevent the condition from worsening — often eliminating the need for surgery.

2. Wrist Bracing or Splinting

A wrist brace or splint is commonly recommended to keep the wrist in a neutral position, particularly at night. Many people unconsciously bend their wrists while sleeping, which can increase pressure on the median nerve.

Night bracing allows the wrist structures to rest, decreasing inflammation and easing tingling or numbness. Some patients also benefit from daytime bracing during repetitive tasks or while typing.

3. Ergonomic and Lifestyle Adjustments

If your job or daily routine involves repetitive wrist movement, ergonomic changes are essential. Small adjustments can make a big difference:

• Keyboard and mouse positioning: Keep wrists straight and elbows at a 90° angle.

• Chair and desk height: Align the shoulders, elbows, and wrists to minimize tension.

• Micro-breaks: Stretch your wrists and shake out your hands every 20–30 minutes.

• Wrist posture awareness: Avoid prolonged bending, gripping, or resting on hard surfaces.

Our Richmond physiotherapists often include a workplace assessment and education component in your treatment plan to help prevent flare-ups and recurrence.

4. Medications and Injections

For moderate cases, anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain temporarily. In more persistent cases, a physician may recommend a corticosteroid injection directly into the carpal tunnel.

While injections can provide short-term relief, they don’t address the underlying mechanical cause. That’s why physiotherapy and exercise remain crucial for long-term recovery and prevention.

5. Surgical Intervention: Carpal Tunnel Release

If symptoms persist for several months despite conservative treatment, or if there is significant nerve compression and muscle weakness, surgery may be necessary. The most common procedure is Carpal Tunnel Release (CTR).

What Happens During Carpal Tunnel Surgery

The goal of this surgery is to relieve pressure on the median nerve by cutting the transverse carpal ligament, the thick band of tissue forming the roof of the carpal tunnel. This increases space inside the tunnel, reducing compression on the nerve.

There are two primary surgical methods:

• Open Carpal Tunnel Release: A small incision (typically 2–5 cm) is made in the palm to access and cut the transverse carpal ligament directly. This method allows for clear visualization of the structures but requires a slightly longer recovery period.

• Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release: A small camera (endoscope) is inserted through one or two tiny incisions, allowing the surgeon to view and cut the ligament from the inside. This technique often results in smaller scars, less post-operative pain, and a faster recovery.

Both methods are typically performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day.

The Importance of Physiotherapy After Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Even after successful surgery, physiotherapy is a vital part of recovery. While surgery relieves pressure on the nerve, it doesn’t automatically restore strength, flexibility, or coordination. Without guided rehabilitation, many people experience lingering stiffness, reduced grip strength, or difficulty returning to daily activities.

At Proactive Health in Richmond, BC, our post-surgical physiotherapy programs are designed to help you regain full wrist and hand function safely and efficiently.

Your recovery plan may include:

• Gentle Range of Motion Exercises: To prevent stiffness and promote proper healing of the wrist and fingers.

• Scar Tissue Management: Manual therapy techniques to reduce scar adhesions, improve tissue mobility, and minimize sensitivity around the incision site.

• Progressive Strengthening: Gradual exercises to restore grip strength, dexterity, and endurance for tasks like typing, lifting, or using tools.

• Swelling and Pain Management: Targeted modalities such as ultrasound, cold therapy, or light massage to decrease inflammation and promote comfort.

• Ergonomic and Activity Retraining: Education on posture, workspace setup, and daily activity modification to prevent recurrence and support long-term recovery.

With proper physiotherapy, most patients can return to normal activity within 6–12 weeks, depending on the severity of the original condition and the type of surgery performed.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Richmond, BC

At Proactive Health, our Richmond physiotherapy team provides comprehensive, personalized care to help you recover from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. We take a whole-body approach — not just treating the wrist, but addressing postural habits, muscle imbalances, and workplace ergonomics that contribute to nerve compression.

Book Your Physiotherapy Assessment Today!

Don’t let wrist pain or numbness hold you back. Contact Proactive Health in Richmond, BC, to book a Carpal Tunnel Syndrome physiotherapy appointment and get back to pain-free movement.

📍 Proactive Health – 13351 Commerce Pkwy Unit 1128, Richmond, BC 🌐

Book your appointment online at https://proactivehealthonline.janeapp.com/