The median nerve is a nerve that gives sensation to your wrist and hand. This nerve passes through a passageway known as the carpal tunnel. Inflammation of this nerve may result in pain, tingling and numbness that can lead to immobility of the hand. If your symptoms are severe, your physician may recommend surgery to release the ligament in the hand that places pressure on the median nerve. Following surgery, physical therapy exercises may improve range of motion in your hand.
Knocking
In the first two to three weeks after your surgery, perform physical therapy exercises that emphasize motions of either the wrist or fingers -- or both. Knocking works the wrist. Keep the hand in a fist as you perform the exercise. Lift the hand in the air, making a knocking motion with your hand. Start by moving back and forth slowly, then increase the speed at which you move the hand. Repeat the exercise 15 to 20 times. Perform as needed throughout the day to keep the muscles loose.
Pinching
This exercise moves the fingers, so keep the wrist stationary as you perform it. Place the forearm and hand on the table. Touch your thumb to your fingers and open the hand as much as you can, spreading your fingers widely. Close the fingers to return to your starting position and repeat 15 to 20 times, depending upon your strength following surgery.
Side to Side
This exercise targets the wrist and helps to work the muscles on the side of the hand. To perform, place your hand on a table or flat surface, making a fist. Your palm should be facing downward. Move the hand to the right, then to the left. Continue to move the hand from side to side for 20 repetitions total. Repeat as needed throughout your day.
Hand Flex
This exercise targets the muscles around the median nerve. Stand or sit with your arms extended in front of you, palms facing downward. Keeping the hands straight, extend your hands backward so that your fingers point upward, feeling a stretch in the top of your wrist. Hold this position for five seconds, then release the stretch. Now point the fingers downward toward the floor, holding this position for five seconds. Repeat six to eight times.
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