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Massage Therapy: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Writer: Lauren Walker
    Lauren Walker
  • Jul 26
  • 4 min read

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common nerve-related conditions in today’s digital age. With so many people spending hours at computers, on smartphones, or doing repetitive tasks with their hands, it’s no surprise that this condition is on the rise. If you’re experiencing numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hands and wrists, massage therapy may offer a safe, non-invasive solution to manage and even relieve your symptoms.

Let’s explore what carpal tunnel syndrome is and how massage can help.


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What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve—which runs from your forearm into the palm of your hand—gets compressed or pinched at the wrist. The “carpal tunnel” is a narrow passageway in the wrist made of bones and ligaments. When surrounding tissues become inflamed or swollen, they can put pressure on the nerve.


Common Symptoms:

  • Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers

  • Hand or wrist weakness

  • Burning or shooting pain up the arm

  • Difficulty gripping or holding objects

It can be caused or worsened by repetitive hand motions, poor ergonomics, injury, or underlying health conditions such as arthritis or diabetes.


How Massage Therapy Helps Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Massage therapy can be highly effective in reducing symptoms and improving function for people with CTS. Here’s how:


1. Reduces Inflammation and Swelling

Massage improves circulation and lymphatic flow, which helps flush out excess fluids and metabolic waste from tissues. This reduces inflammation and pressure around the median nerve.


2. Releases Tension in Surrounding Muscles

Often, the problem isn’t just at the wrist. Tight muscles in the forearm, upper arm, neck, and shoulders can contribute to nerve compression. Massage helps release these muscle restrictions, reducing overall strain on the wrist and hand.


3. Breaks Up Fascial Adhesions

Over time, repetitive movements can cause the connective tissue (fascia) to become stiff or stuck. Techniques like myofascial release can help free up the tissues around the wrist and forearm, improving mobility and reducing pressure on the nerve.


4. Improves Nerve Mobility

Massage can help the median nerve glide more freely through the wrist by reducing soft tissue restrictions. This can lead to better nerve function and less irritation.


5. Relieves Referred Pain and Trigger Points

Trigger points in the neck, shoulder, or forearm muscles can cause referred pain that mimics or worsens CTS symptoms. Trigger point therapy can reduce these pain signals and improve comfort.


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Best Massage Techniques for CTS

Here are some techniques that a skilled massage therapist may use:

  • Myofascial release: Targets the fascia around the wrist, hand, and forearm to reduce restriction.

  • Deep tissue massage: Works on deeper muscle layers to release chronic tension (used cautiously to avoid irritation).

  • Trigger point therapy: Addresses tight knots in muscles that can refer pain or cause tension in the wrist.

  • Swedish massage: Gentle, flowing strokes promote circulation and overall relaxation—great for reducing inflammation and stress.


What to Expect in a Session

If you’re getting massage for carpal tunnel syndrome:

  • Your therapist will likely work on the forearm, wrist, hand, shoulder, and possibly neck.

  • Pressure will be adjusted to avoid aggravating symptoms.

  • You may be given stretching or self-massage tips to do at home between sessions.

  • Multiple sessions may be needed for lasting relief, especially if symptoms are chronic.


Always inform your therapist of your diagnosis, symptoms, and comfort level during the massage.


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When to Use Massage – and When to See a Doctor

Massage therapy is an excellent complementary treatment—especially in the early or moderate stages of CTS. However, if your symptoms are severe or if you’ve already experienced muscle atrophy or constant numbness, you should consult a healthcare provider. In some cases, surgery or corticosteroid injections may be necessary.

Massage can also be a helpful part of post-surgery rehabilitation to regain mobility and reduce scar tissue.


Final Thoughts

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome doesn’t have to take control of your hands—or your life. When used consistently, massage therapy can reduce pain, restore function, and prevent the condition from progressing. Best of all, it’s natural, non-invasive, and supports your body’s own healing process.

If you’re starting to notice wrist pain or numbness creeping in, don’t wait—schedule a massage with a therapist experienced in treating nerve compression and repetitive strain injuries. Your hands will thank you.


Relish Well-ness to the Core with our Relaxing Massage Sessions: Wellness Rituals offers effective alternative healing therapies such as Thai Yoga Massage or our Table Top Stretch Sessions. This unique healing therapy incorporates Yoga, pressure points, and reflexology, aiming to reduce body fatigue.


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