Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 2026 Update: What Physical Therapists Need to Know
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is still one of the most common nerve compression conditions physical therapists see in the clinic. The 2026 Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy (JOSPT) clinical practice guideline update reinforces a practical message: start with a strong exam, listen closely to the patient’s story, use evidence-supported tools, and know when to refer.
For mild to moderate CTS, the strongest physical therapy-supported intervention remains a forearm-based wrist orthosis that keeps the wrist near neutral, usually worn at night. Ergonomic education, activity modification, manual therapy, selected exercise, kinesiology taping, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, interferential current, superficial heat, and diathermy may help some patients, but many of these recommendations are based on weak or limited evidence.
The big clinical reminder: thenar atrophy, objective weakness, sensory loss, progressive symptoms, atypical presentation, or failed conservative care should raise the referral conversation early.
🧠 “More Than Flexible”: Understanding Hypermobility, hEDS, and the Power of Listening
Hypermobility isn’t just “being flexible.” For many patients, it’s a complex, often misunderstood condition that can affect the entire body—not just joints.
Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) can present with chronic pain, fatigue, anxiety, and multisystem symptoms. Diagnosis can take years, and patients often feel dismissed along the way.
The most effective care isn’t just clinical—it’s relational. When providers listen, validate, and collaborate, outcomes improve. Treatment works best when it’s multidisciplinary, patient-centered, and focused on long-term self-management.
Lateral Hip Pain Isn’t Just “Bursitis”: What’s Really Going On (and What Actually Helps)
“Lateral hip pain” is often grouped under Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)—not just bursitis.
It commonly affects middle-aged women and is linked to hip tendon irritation, weakness, and movement patterns.
Pain often shows up with walking, stairs, single-leg tasks, or lying on your side.
There’s no single perfect test—it’s about the whole clinical picture.
Treatment works best when it focuses on:
Education (huge)
Load management (avoid irritation early)
Progressive strengthening (especially hip + core)
This is usually a gradual, chronic condition—not something caused by one big injury.
The goal isn’t just to “fix pain”—it’s to restore confidence, movement, and trust in your body.
Low Back Pain Isn’t Just “Getting Older”: What Helps Most
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek healthcare—but it is not simply something you must “live with.” Many cases improve with the right plan, especially one focused on movement, education, exercise, and trust between patient and provider.
Research consistently shows that staying active within tolerance is better than prolonged bed rest, and treatments like physical therapy, exercise, spinal mobilization, yoga, aquatic therapy, and targeted strengthening can help many people.
For providers, one of the most powerful interventions is often the conversation itself: reducing fear, building confidence, explaining prognosis, and helping patients move forward safely.