How Night Splints Help Manage Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Date: April 9, 2025

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs through the wrist. This pressure can lead to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Left untreated, CTS can significantly impact daily activities, work performance, and overall quality of life.

One of the most effective and conservative treatments for CTS, especially in its early stages, is the use of night splints

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tissues surrounding the flexor tendons in the wrist swell and put pressure on the median nerve. Contributing factors can include repetitive hand movements, wrist injuries, pregnancy, and chronic conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

Why Are Night Splints Recommended for CTS?

At night, many people unknowingly bend their wrists while sleeping. This position increases pressure within the carpal tunnel, worsening symptoms by compressing the median nerve. Night splints are designed to hold the wrist in a neutral position, reducing strain and pressure during sleep.

Benefits of Wearing Night Splints:

  • Reduces Median Nerve Compression: Holding the wrist straight minimizes pressure on the nerve.
  • Decreases Nighttime Symptoms: Prevents nocturnal numbness, tingling, and pain that often disrupts sleep.
  • Promotes Healing: Reducing irritation allows the nerve and surrounding tissues to recover more effectively.
  • Non-Invasive Treatment: Splinting is a simple, safe, and non-surgical way to manage symptoms early.
How Night Splints Help Manage Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Cts)
How Night Splints Help Manage Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

What the Research Says

Clinical studies support the use of wrist splints for CTS symptom relief:

  • According to the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care, night splinting helps alleviate numbness and tingling by keeping the wrist neutral during sleep, reducing irritation of the median nerve.
  • Research published in Military Medicine emphasizes that neutral wrist splinting at night can effectively improve symptoms in individuals with mild to moderate CTS, offering a non-invasive treatment alternative before considering surgical intervention.

How Pain Free Health Clinic Can Help

At Pain Free Health Clinic, we specialize in treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome through a multidisciplinary approach. Our team offers:

We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs to help relieve pain, improve wrist function, and prevent symptom progression.

Additionally, we offer a variety of high-quality splints at our clinics, including Bauerfeind brand braces, known for their comfort, durability, and superior wrist support.

Our clinic locations include:

No matter which location you visit, our expert team is here to support your recovery journey with comprehensive carpal tunnel treatments and splinting solutions.

Choosing the Right Splint

Splints like the Bauerfeind Manuloc Rhizo are highly effective because they provide rigid support that maintains the wrist in an ideal neutral position. A good night splint should be comfortable, breathable, and easy to adjust for optimal positioning.

Final Thoughts

Wearing a night splint can make a significant difference for individuals dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome. By preventing wrist flexion during sleep, splints reduce nerve compression, improve symptoms, and support better hand function.

If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms of CTS, visit one of our Pain Free Health Clinic locations in Langley, South Surrey, Ladner, Surrey, or Richmond. Our team of physiotherapists, massage therapists, chiropractors, and acupuncturists will create a personalized treatment plan to help you regain comfort, function, and peace of mind.

Book your consultation today and start your journey to pain-free living!

Sources:

  • Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care. "Carpal tunnel syndrome: Wrist splints and hand exercises."
  • "Splinting in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: The Optimal Duration." Military Medicine.

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