Hand Pain and Sensory Deficits: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Revision 2026

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2026 Apr;56(4):CPG1-CPG79. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2026.0301.

Abstract

APTA Orthopedics and APTA Hand and Upper Extremity Physical Therapy, Academies of the American Physical Therapy Association, have an ongoing effort to create evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for physical therapy management and prevention of upper extremity musculoskeletal impairments described in the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). This particular guideline is a revision of the 2019 CPG that focuses on hand pain and sensory deficits in carpal tunnel syndrome. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2026;56(4):CPG1-CPG79. Epub 12 February 2026. doi:10.2519/jospt.2026.0301.

Keywords: ICD; ICF; carpal tunnel syndrome; clinical practice guidelines; hand; nerve compression.

Publication types

  • Practice Guideline

MeSH terms

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome* / complications
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome* / physiopathology
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome* / therapy
  • Hand* / innervation
  • Hand* / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Physical Therapy Modalities*