Carpal Tunnel Release

The carpal tunnel is the location on the palmar side of the wrist where wrist flexor tendons, and the median nerve pass through to get to the hand.  The ‘tunnel’ itself is comprised of the carpal bones and the transverse carpal ligament. If carpal tunnel does not respond to conservative treatments, a surgeon may elect to perform a carpal tunnel release.  This happens by cutting the transverse carpal ligament, to create more space/less pressure on the nerve.  Following surgery, there may be a period of immobilization which can lead to wrist hypomobility (tightness), decreased range of motion, and weakness. Once your surgeon releases you to physical therapy we will address the listed impairments found on the initial examination to improve symptoms.

Associated Symptoms:

  • Wrist pain
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Difficulty with fine motor skills
  • Difficulty gripping and picking up objects

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