Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  2. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) – Wrist Pain, Numbness & Tingling in the Hand

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers. It occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist.

At Muscles Care Massage Therapy in Melbourne (Prahran), we provide targeted myotherapy and remedial massage treatments to help relieve symptoms and address the root cause of the problem.

📍What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow space in the wrist surrounded by bones and ligaments. When swelling or tight structures increase pressure in this tunnel, it compresses the median nerve, leading to:

  • Numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers

  • Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation

  • Weak grip or dropping objects

  • Pain that may travel up the forearm

⚠️ Common Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

CTS is often related to repetitive strain and poor wrist posture, especially in:

  • Office workers (typing, mouse use)

  • Tradespeople using vibrating tools

  • Mobile phone overuse

  • Gym or gripping activities

Other contributing factors include:

  • Pregnancy or after giving birth

  • Menopause or fluid retention

  • Diabetes or inflammatory conditions

  • Previous wrist injuries

🔍 How We Assess Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

At Muscles Care Massage Therapy, we perform a detailed assessment including:

  • Postural and movement analysis

  • Wrist and forearm muscle tension assessment

  • Special tests such as:

    • Phalen’s Test

    • Tinel’s Sign

    • Carpal Compression Test

We also assess whether symptoms may be coming from the neck, shoulder, or forearm, not just the wrist.

💆‍♀️ Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Melbourne

Our treatment approach focuses on reducing pressure on the median nerve and improving function.

✔ Myotherapy & Remedial Massage

  • Release tight forearm flexor muscles

  • Reduce tension around the carpal tunnel

  • Improve circulation and nerve mobility

✔ Trigger Point Therapy

Target key muscles such as:

  • Pronator Teres

  • Flexor Digitorum

  • Thenar muscles

✔ Dry Needling & Cupping (if required)

  • Reduce deep muscle tightness

  • Support tissue recovery

✔ Nerve Gliding Exercises

  • Improve median nerve mobility

  • Reduce irritation and compression

🏠 What You Can Do at Home

  • Avoid prolonged wrist bending

  • Take regular breaks from repetitive tasks

  • Use ergonomic keyboard and mouse setup

  • Wear a wrist splint at night

  • Perform gentle stretching and nerve gliding exercises

❗ When to Seek Treatment

You should seek professional care if you experience:

  • Persistent numbness or tingling

  • Weakness in your hand

  • Night pain that disturbs sleep

  • Symptoms worsening over time

Early treatment helps prevent long-term nerve damage.