Chances are, you’ve heard of carpal tunnel syndrome, or maybe you’re experiencing it yourself. That familiar tingling or numbness in your fingers, the wrist pain that flares up at the keyboard, or the hand that suddenly feels weak and clumsy? That’s not something to brush off. It could be carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), and if left untreated, it can lead to chronic discomfort or even long-term nerve damage.

The good news? You can often manage and recover from carpal tunnel syndrome without surgery, and physical therapy plays a major role.

Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care, yet many find themselves facing a maze of treatment options, from surgery to medications, that may not address the root of the problem. Fortunately, a growing body of academic research supports conservative care methods that focus on active self-management, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications as safe and effective alternatives.