Physiotherapy for Wrist and Hand Injuries: Carpal Tunnel, Sprains, and Post-Surgery Rehabilitation
Introduction
Wrist and hand injuries are common in both daily life and professional activities, especially those involving repetitive motions. Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist sprains, tendon injuries, and post-surgical rehabilitation can lead to pain, stiffness, weakness, and limited functional ability.
Physiotherapy is essential for reducing pain, restoring mobility, strengthening muscles, and improving hand function, helping patients return to work, sports, or daily activities safely.
Understanding Wrist and Hand Injuries
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
• Definition: Compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist.
• Causes: Repetitive wrist movements, typing, or prolonged hand use.
• Symptoms: Tingling, numbness, pain in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, and weakness in grip.
2. Wrist Sprains
• Definition: Stretching or tearing of ligaments that stabilize the wrist.
• Causes: Falls, twisting injuries, or sports accidents.
• Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, reduced range of motion, instability.
3. Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
• Surgery may involve tendon repair, fracture fixation, or carpal tunnel release.
• Physiotherapy is critical to restore motion, strength, and hand function, preventing stiffness and long-term disability.
Goals of Physiotherapy for Wrist and Hand Injuries
1. Pain Reduction: Alleviate discomfort using modalities and exercises.
2. Restore Range of Motion (ROM): Improve flexibility in wrist, fingers, and thumb.
3. Strengthen Muscles and Tendons: Enhance grip, pinch strength, and dexterity.
4. Functional Recovery: Return to daily activities, work, and sports.
5. Prevent Recurrence: Maintain hand strength and flexibility for long-term health.
Physiotherapy Techniques for Wrist and Hand Injuries
1. Pain Management
• Ice therapy for acute injuries
• Heat therapy for chronic stiffness or post-surgical relaxation
• TENS for nerve-related pain (e.g., CTS)
• Soft tissue massage to reduce muscle tension
2. Range of Motion Exercises
• Wrist flexion and extension, radial and ulnar deviation
• Finger and thumb bends, extensions, and spreads
• Passive and active-assisted movements post-surgery
3. Strengthening Exercises
• Grip exercises: Using stress balls, putty, or hand exercisers
• Pinch exercises: Thumb opposition and finger pinch activities
• Resistance bands or light weights: Improve wrist and forearm strength
4. Nerve Gliding Exercises
• For CTS and nerve entrapment injuries
• Gentle mobilization to reduce compression and improve nerve mobility
5. Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
• Early passive and assisted ROM exercises
• Gradual strengthening of wrist, fingers, and forearm muscles
• Functional exercises for writing, typing, or daily tasks
6. Ergonomic and Activity Modification
• Adjust workstation setup to reduce strain
• Take breaks from repetitive tasks
• Maintain proper wrist alignment during typing or sports
Practical Tips for Patients
• Consistency: Daily exercises improve recovery and prevent stiffness.
• Avoid aggravating movements: Reduce repetitive wrist stress during the acute phase.
• Gradual progression: Increase resistance and activity level slowly.
• Use supportive devices: Splints or braces may protect the wrist during recovery.
• Monitor symptoms: Numbness, swelling, or sharp pain should be reported promptly.
Case Example (Illustrative)
A 30-year-old office worker developed carpal tunnel syndrome from prolonged typing. Physiotherapy included:
• Nerve gliding exercises and stretches for the wrist and fingers
• Grip and pinch strengthening exercises
• Ergonomic adjustments for desk setup and typing technique
After 6 weeks, he reported reduced tingling and pain, improved grip strength, and could work comfortably without discomfort.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Wrist and Hand Injuries
• Reduces pain and inflammation
• Restores range of motion and flexibility
• Strengthens wrist, fingers, and forearm muscles
• Improves grip, pinch, and functional hand use
• Prevents recurrence and long-term complications
• Supports faster recovery and return to normal life
Conclusion
Physiotherapy is a critical part of managing wrist and hand injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Through a combination of pain management, stretching, strengthening, nerve gliding exercises, and ergonomic guidance, patients can achieve optimal recovery, restore hand function, and prevent future injuries. Early intervention and consistent rehabilitation ensure long-term wrist and hand health.
0 Comments