Physical Rehabilitation

Weston Medical Health Center’s fully equipped physical therapy suite offers rehabilitation, work conditioning and diagnostic testing. Therapeutic exercise and massage as well as range of motion exercises are available.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) refers to a common, specific pattern of hand pain, numbness, or paresthesia (burning pain) that occurs along the palm into the fingers and wrist.

The pain frequently extends up the arm to the shoulder or chest. The median nerve passes through a space inside the wrist called the carpal tunnel. Inflammation or increased fluid retention in this area compresses the nerve, causing pain and changes in sensation along the palm and thumb, index, and middle fingers.

Swelling and inflammation around the nerve are related to the late stages of pregnancy, menopause, birth control pills, injury, hypothyroidism, diabetes, arthritis and activities that require repeated wrist motion. CTS is common in middle aged women, and can be in either one or both hands. Examination by a physician and nerve testing confirms the diagnosis. Treatment can be as simple as eliminating stressful hand positioning, oral anti-inflammatory medicines and the use of splints.