PRIMUS PHYSIO
Carpal Tunnel Treatment

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

Expert physiotherapy for carpal tunnel syndrome — treating hand pain, numbness, wrist tingling and weak grip in Newcastle-under-Lyme and Stoke-on-Trent.

Hand NumbnessWrist PainTingling FingersWeak GripNight Pain

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel — a narrow passage in the wrist. It causes pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand and fingers, particularly the thumb, index and middle fingers.

It is one of the most common nerve compression conditions and is particularly prevalent in office workers, manual labourers, pregnant women and those with repetitive hand and wrist tasks. Mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome responds very well to physiotherapy — often avoiding the need for surgery entirely.

Numbness in thumb, index & middle fingers
Tingling in the hand
Wrist pain
Weak grip
Dropping objects
Symptoms worse at night
Pain radiating up the forearm
Morning hand stiffness

Common Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Repetitive hand and wrist use

Typing, mouse use, assembly work or any repetitive gripping action can increase pressure within the carpal tunnel over time.

Pregnancy

Fluid retention during pregnancy commonly causes swelling that compresses the median nerve. CTS during pregnancy often resolves after delivery.

Wrist position

Working or sleeping with the wrist in a bent or extended position increases pressure within the tunnel, aggravating the nerve.

Underlying health conditions

Diabetes, thyroid conditions, rheumatoid arthritis and obesity are all associated with increased risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Previous wrist injury

Fractures or injuries to the wrist can alter the anatomy of the carpal tunnel and increase nerve compression.

Overloaded neck or shoulder

Nerve sensitivity often starts higher up — tension in the neck, thoracic spine or shoulder can contribute to symptoms felt in the hand.

How We Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Accurate nerve assessment

We assess the median nerve throughout its full pathway — from the neck and shoulder to the wrist — to identify where compression or sensitisation is occurring and what is driving the symptoms.

Nerve mobilisation exercises

Specific neural mobilisation techniques to improve median nerve movement and reduce sensitivity — one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Wrist splinting advice

Night splints are highly effective for carpal tunnel syndrome, keeping the wrist in a neutral position during sleep and reducing overnight symptoms. We advise on correct fit and usage.

Strengthening and loading

Progressive exercises to strengthen the hand, wrist and forearm muscles — reducing the load placed on the carpal tunnel structures during daily tasks.

Activity and ergonomic advice

Practical guidance on modifying workstation setup, keyboard and mouse position, gripping technique and task pacing to reduce nerve irritation throughout the day.

Return to full function

A clear plan for returning to pain-free work, sport or daily activity — with strategies to prevent recurrence long term.

What Patients Say

★★★★★

"Luqman resolved my issue in just a few sessions. He gave me follow-up exercises and I haven't had any problems since. Highly recommend."

— Michele
★★★★★

"Excellent service from start to finish. I came in with wrist and hand pain affecting my work — clear diagnosis and treatment plan that actually worked."

— Google Review
★★★★★

"I'd been told I'd need surgery. Luqman worked through the problem properly and I avoided the operation entirely with the right physio."

— Google Review

Carpal Tunnel FAQs

Can physiotherapy treat carpal tunnel syndrome? +
Yes — physiotherapy is highly effective for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome. Treatment including nerve mobilisation, splinting advice and strengthening often avoids the need for surgery. Severe cases with significant muscle wasting may need a surgical opinion.
Do I need surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome? +
Not necessarily. Surgery is typically considered only when symptoms are severe, persistent or accompanied by significant muscle wasting. Many patients avoid surgery with the right conservative physiotherapy treatment.
Why are my symptoms worse at night? +
Night symptoms are classic for carpal tunnel syndrome. During sleep, the wrist often bends into a position that increases pressure within the tunnel. A night splint to keep the wrist neutral is one of the most effective first steps in managing symptoms.
Can carpal tunnel syndrome come back after treatment? +
It can if the underlying causes are not addressed. We focus on identifying and correcting contributing factors — ergonomics, technique, strength — to prevent recurrence alongside treating the current symptoms.
Is my carpal tunnel caused by my job or computer use? +
Repetitive keyboard and mouse use is a common contributing factor, but it is rarely the sole cause. Wrist position, sitting posture, neck and shoulder tension and overall hand strength all play a role. A full assessment identifies all contributing factors.
Do I need a GP referral? +
No — you can book directly at Primus Physio without a GP referral and be seen the same week.
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Same-week appointments in Newcastle-under-Lyme. No GP referral needed.

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