Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatments in Long Island, NY

East End Occupational Therapy is a specialized hand and upper extremity rehabilitation practice that has been dedicated to providing a complete and comprehensive range of occupational therapy services to its patients. The team at East End Occupational Therapy strives to deliver the best evidence based care possible through our client centered approach.

Not only is our practice in direct contact with your physician from the initial examination through your discharge, we also work closely with your surgeon to develop an optimal plan of care with the goal of restoring your functional independence. Most of us rely on our hands routinely and it is not until we suffer an injury that we recognize the importance of our hand function when performing daily living skills.

East End Occupational Therapy offers comprehensive carpal tunnel syndrome treatments in Long Island, NY, designed to alleviate pain, improve function, and restore your quality of life. Our expert hand therapists specialize in addressing conditions that affect the wrist, hand, and fingers, including carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway at the base of the palm.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) can cause a range of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, often affecting the thumb, index, and middle fingers. These symptoms may radiate to the forearm and interfere with daily activities such as using a computer mouse or gripping objects. Left untreated, the condition can lead to nerve damage or loss of function in severe cases. Risk factors include repetitive hand motions, arthritis, diabetes, thyroid issues, and fluid retention associated with pregnancy or other conditions.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatments

At East End Occupational Therapy, we create personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s severity and unique needs. Treatments may include:

• Activity/Exercise Regimens: Custom-designed to improve motion, strength, and dexterity.
• Manual Therapy: To address soreness around the wrist and reduce pressure on the median nerve.
• Ergonomic Modifications: For preventive care, such as adjusting a computer mouse or workstation setup.
• Orthotic Fabrication: Providing wrist splints for immobilization or to protect against further nerve compression.
• Thermal and Electrical Modalities: To relieve pain and promote healing.
• Scar Tissue Management and Wound Care: Following surgery or injury to improve recovery outcomes.

In some cases, surgery may be required to relieve severe nerve compression, such as cutting the ligament pressing on the median nerve. Our therapists provide post-operative rehabilitation to optimize recovery and restore function.

Why Choose East End Occupational Therapy?

Our certified hand therapists possess advanced expertise in the anatomy, kinesiology, and treatment of upper extremity conditions. We address the root causes of carpal tunnel syndrome, including pressure on the median nerve, swelling around the nerve, and tendon or ligament issues. Whether you’re managing mild tingling and numbness or recovering from surgery, we offer the knowledge and care needed to guide your recovery.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome usually develops from a combination of factors that increase pressure on the median nerve. These include repetitive motions, arthritis, or other conditions that cause swelling in the wrist. While symptoms may begin gradually, they can worsen over time, leading to severe cases requiring medical attention.

Custom Splinting for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

East End Occupational Therapy offers custom splinting services as part of our comprehensive treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Custom splints are designed to support the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve and allowing the tissues to heal. Unlike over-the-counter options, custom splints are tailored to fit your hand and wrist anatomy, providing optimal comfort and support. Our expert hand therapists utilize custom splinting to address a variety of needs, including:

• Immobilization to protect against further nerve damage or inflammation.
• Post-surgical sup port to aid recovery and prevent re-injury.
• Relief from symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.

Custom splints are especially beneficial for patients experiencing worsening symptoms, those recovering from surgery, or individuals looking for a non-invasive treatment option. With proper use, custom splinting can help relieve pain, restore motion, and improve your ability to perform daily activities.

FAQs

1. What will happen during my first visit?

During your first visit you can expect the following:

• Arrive at your appointment with your paperwork completed (you can download these from our website – see the Patient Forms page).
• You will provide us with your prescription for therapy.
• We will copy your insurance card.
• You will be seen for the initial evaluation by the therapist.
  • Your medical history.
  • Your current problems/complaints.
  • Pain intensity, what aggravates and eases the problem.
  • How this is impacting your daily activities or your functional limitations.
  • Your goals with occupational therapy.
  • Medications, tests, and procedures related to your health.

The therapist will discuss the following:
The therapist will then perform an objective evaluation and develop a customized treatment plan.

2. Is occupational therapy painful?

In some cases, occupational therapy techniques can cause discomfort. For example, some therapy methods used to recover hand or shoulder range of motion after a significant injury or surgery can be painful. Your occupational therapist will utilize a variety of techniques to help maximize your treatment goals. It is important that you communicate the intensity, frequency, and duration of pain to your therapist. Without this information, it is difficult for the therapist to adjust your treatment plan.

For many patients, one of the primary objectives is pain relief. This is frequently accomplished with hands-on techniques, modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and/or heat or cold therapy. Movement often provides pain relief as well. Your therapist will provide you with the appropriate treatment not only for pain relief but to recover range of motion, strength, and endurance.

3. How long will each treatment last?

Treatment sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes per visit