Carpal tunnel exercises Info

A hand-drawn illustration of carpal tunnel release, illustrated in the practice house style. — Carpal tunnel exercises Kieran Hirpara 4.0

Exercise handout for after endoscopic carpal tunnel release — wrist tenodesis, fist/hook glides and thumb opposition, recreated from an Extend Rehabilitation sheet.

Prepared in association with Extend Rehabilitation

Anatomy

After surgery, the healing edges of the ligament beneath the skin are usually tender for at least four to six weeks after the procedure. Temporary tenderness on each side of the palm where the ligament is attached to the bones is common after surgery and is called “pillar pain”. This generally resolves gradually.

General

Keep hand elevated above heart level as much as possible especially during the first week.
Avoid tight fist/grip.
Avoid repetitive gripping tasks.
Avoid heavy lifting.
Avoid vibratory machines/tasks e.g. lawn mowing
Limit driving for the first week

Dressings

Apply these dressings to control swelling and support the carpal arch, as shown by your therapist.

Kinesiotaping
Coban
Tubigrip

How much should I use my hand?

We recommend that you use your hand for light to moderate tasks, but follow the precautions outlined under general on this page.

Will my ligament heal over again?

The original ligament will not reattach, however scar tissue will form and create a pseudo tendon that performs the same function as the original ligament.

Exercises

Resting on the elbow with fingers relaxed, the wrist bends forward and backwards.

Exercise 1

Resting on elbow with fingers relaxed, bend wrist forward and then backwards.

As prescribed by your hand therapist — ____ reps, ____ times per day

Three hand positions: a loose fist, a hook, then fingers straightened and spread.

Exercise 2

Supporting wrist back, make a loose fist – then “hook” – and then straighten and spread your fingers.

As prescribed by your hand therapist — ____ reps, ____ times per day

The thumb moves toward the base of the little finger, then straightens.

Exercise 3

Move thumb toward base of little finger and then straighten.

As prescribed by your hand therapist — ____ reps, ____ times per day

You will need to perform the following exercises ___ times per day.

CARDS

Scar/sensitivity management

Massaging (in small circles) as shown by your therapist will assist in reducing the discomfort and sensitivity
Tapping the sensitive region is also recommended. It is best to do this for short periods frequently e.g. 2-3 minutes each hour.
You may also be supplied with a silicone pad and/or glove to assist with the scar and sensitivity.
5 x 'Hello World' nerve glides