The Hand to Shoulder Solution

The elbow plays a critical role in daily movements and needs proper care to maintain optimal function and prevent injury.

• Three joints in the elbow allow for bending and turning palms up/down
• The ulnar nerve runs through the inside of the elbow and causes that "funny bone" sensation
• Never rest on the inside part of your elbow to avoid cubital tunnel syndrome
• Muscles that control hand and wrist movements anchor at specific points on the elbow
• Squeezing exercises with proper tools (not balls) can strengthen grip and condition tendons
• Use a hammer for rotational exercises to work pronating and supinating muscles
• Perform wrist curls with your forearm supported on your thigh for proper form
• Bicep strengthening helps with pulling motions essential for daily activities
• Tricep exercises like the Arnold press benefit both elbow and shoulder health
• Allow for proper recovery between workouts as "more is not always better"

Share your questions and experiences in the comments, and I'll provide personalized information to help with your specific situation.

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Work with Carl! Check out the website - www.carlpetitto.com

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Hello and welcome to the show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto. 

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource. 

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us 'give pain the middle finger for good'! 

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions. 

Thank you, and welcome to the show! 

Carl Petito, an occupational therapist and certified hand therapist, explains what carpal tunnel syndrome is and how to test yourself for it at home. He details the anatomical structures involved and why prompt medical attention is crucial for preventing long-term nerve damage.

• The carpal tunnel is formed by eight carpal bones connected by ligaments, containing nine tendons and the median nerve
• Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed, causing numbness in the thumb, index, middle finger, and half the ring finger
• Contrary to popular belief, wrist pads for typing can actually cause carpal tunnel syndrome by putting pressure on the nerve
• Self-tests include Phalen's maneuver (holding wrists bent for 30 seconds), Tinel's sign (tapping the heel of the palm), and manual occlusion test
• Early intervention is critical as nerve tissue is "unforgiving" – the longer symptoms persist, the harder they are to treat
• Nerve conduction studies provide definitive diagnosis, but see a healthcare provider if experiencing persistent symptoms

Please share these videos, subscribe to the channel, and support us in bringing this important information to people who need it.

Support the show

Work with Carl! Check out the website - www.carlpetitto.com

SUPPORT THE SHOW HERE: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BM23TS2LDQVFS

Hello and welcome to the show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto. 

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource. 

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us 'give pain the middle finger for good'! 

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions. 

Thank you, and welcome to the show! 

Thumb pain? Keep reading, watch this video, and subscribe for more tips! 

Thumb tendonitis (De Quervain's tenosynovitis) is a common condition affecting tendons on the thumb side of the wrist that requires immediate attention to prevent surgery. Early intervention with custom orthoses, therapeutic techniques, and potentially steroid injections can effectively treat this condition and preserve hand function.

• Two specific tendons involved: extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus
• Often accompanied by radiostyloiditis (inflammation at the bony knob at wrist base)
• Diagnosed through several tests, including the Finkelstein maneuver (bending the thumb toward little finger)
• Custom thumb spica orthoses that immobilize the wrist while allowing fingertip use
• Treatment progresses from full immobilization to modified splinting as healing occurs
• Therapeutic interventions include ultrasound, stretching exercises, and cold laser therapy
• Soft tissue mobilization techniques help release adhesions around tendons
• Steroid injections can significantly reduce inflammation when appropriate
• Surgery becomes necessary when conservative treatment fails after prolonged symptoms
• Condition is as common as carpal tunnel syndrome, but requires prompt attention

If you're experiencing thumb-side wrist pain, seek treatment from a hand therapist as soon as possible. The sooner we address this condition, the better your chances are of avoiding surgery.

Support the show

Work with Carl! Check out the website - www.carlpetitto.com

SUPPORT THE SHOW HERE: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BM23TS2LDQVFS

Hello and welcome to the show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto. 

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource. 

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us 'give pain the middle finger for good'! 

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions. 

Thank you, and welcome to the show! 

Arthritis and stiffness in the hands and fingers can severely limit mobility and function over time, but proper stretching techniques can help restore range of motion and reduce pain. We explore effective methods for stretching fingers and wrists that emphasize gentle, consistent approaches rather than pushing through pain.

• Arthritis (joint inflammation) causes stiffness that compounds when people move less to avoid pain
• Trauma, bone fractures, and healing periods can also contribute to joint stiffness
• Finger stretching should bend the big knuckle to 90 degrees until feeling a pulling sensation, not pain
• "Place and hold" technique: stretch for 10-20 seconds, then actively hold position to retrain muscles
• Wrist contains 15 bones, 24 ligaments, and 24 tendons requiring specific stretching approaches
• Keep fingers open when stretching wrists to prevent tethering tendons and limiting motion
• Stretch in both directions (flexion and extension) for comprehensive mobility
• Rest periods between stretches are equally important as the stretching itself
• Perform stretches every 2-3 hours with proper rest intervals

Always consult with your healthcare provider for stretches tailored to your specific situation as there are unlimited possible conditions requiring individualized approaches.

Support the show

Work with Carl! Check out the website - www.carlpetitto.com

SUPPORT THE SHOW HERE: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BM23TS2LDQVFS

Hello and welcome to the show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto. 

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource. 

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us 'give pain the middle finger for good'! 

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions. 

Thank you, and welcome to the show! 

Stiffness in the hand, wrist, and forearm commonly occurs after injuries, surgeries, or immobilization, and requires specific rehabilitation techniques to restore healthy movement. Understanding the science behind tissue recovery and proper stretching techniques leads to better outcomes and less pain during the rehabilitation process.

• Stiffness happens quickly when joints, soft tissues, tendons, and muscles contract during healing
• Living tissues need rest periods between stretches—constant motion actually increases inflammation
• Pushing too hard causes a stretch reflex where tissues contract more, worsening stiffness
• Post-surgery motion typically begins within a week for fractures fixed with plates and screws
• Specific stretches include forearm rotation, wrist flexion/extension, and finger mobility exercises
• Elevate hand above heart level to reduce swelling (hand on chest while walking, pillows while seated)
• Post-cast rehabilitation requires active-assisted range of motion with light, sustained stretches
• Perform stretches every 2-3 hours, holding for 10-20 seconds, followed by a 3-second active hold
• Understanding wrist-finger mechanics helps target specific tendons and muscles
• Recording personalized stretching routines on your phone provides an easy reference for home exercises

Thank you for watching, subscribing, and sharing these videos with people experiencing stiffness, pain, or limited use of their arm.

Support the show

Work with Carl! Check out the website - www.carlpetitto.com

SUPPORT THE SHOW HERE: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BM23TS2LDQVFS

Hello and welcome to the show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto. 

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource. 

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us 'give pain the middle finger for good'! 

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions. 

Thank you, and welcome to the show! 

Thumb tendonitis causes pain on the thumb side of your wrist due to inflammation of tendons that connect forearm muscles to the thumb. This common condition affects barbers, new mothers, and others who perform repetitive thumb movements, often coexisting with arthritis at the base of the thumb.

• Tendonitis of the thumb side wrist occurs when tendons become inflamed at a friction point where they pass through a compartment
• A positive Finkelstein's test (bending wrist toward little finger) indicates thumb tendonitis
• Over-the-counter wrist braces often cause more harm than good by placing pressure on inflamed areas
• Custom-molded splints properly immobilize without adding pressure to painful structures
• Treatment includes rest, specialized splinting, possibly steroid injections, and cold laser therapy
• Use cold running water instead of ice packs to reduce inflammation without adding pressure
• Morning is the only time heat therapy might be beneficial when inflammation is naturally lower
• Surgery may be necessary for cases persisting more than six months

Support the show

Work with Carl! Check out the website - www.carlpetitto.com

SUPPORT THE SHOW HERE: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BM23TS2LDQVFS

Hello and welcome to the show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto. 

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource. 

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us 'give pain the middle finger for good'! 

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions. 

Thank you, and welcome to the show! 

Are your fingers going numb at night? That tingling sensation might be carpal tunnel syndrome. As a board-certified hand therapist, I've seen countless patients suffering needlessly because they didn't recognize the early warning signs or were using the wrong treatment approaches.

The carpal tunnel houses the median nerve, which supplies sensation to your thumb, index, middle, and half of your ring finger. When compressed, this nerve creates that characteristic numbness and tingling many mistake for poor circulation. But you don't need to wait for a doctor's appointment to start investigating your symptoms.

This episode walks you through simple self-tests you can perform right now. Learn how the Phalen's Maneuver and Tinel's Sign can help identify potential carpal tunnel syndrome, and why those drugstore wrist braces might actually be making your condition worse. I'll show you how to modify existing braces and explain why custom orthoses provide superior relief without putting harmful pressure on the nerve.

Most importantly, I share why early intervention is crucial for avoiding surgery. Through proper splinting, nerve flossing techniques, and avoiding common mistakes like massaging the affected area, many patients can find significant relief without surgical intervention. Remember, no two hands are identical, and personalized treatment yields the best outcomes.

Whether you work at a computer all day, perform repetitive hand movements, or simply wake up with numb fingers, this episode provides the knowledge you need to take control of your hand health. Share this with anyone experiencing hand numbness or tingling – you might just save them from unnecessary pain and surgery.

Support the show

Work with Carl! Check out the website - www.carlpetitto.com

SUPPORT THE SHOW HERE: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BM23TS2LDQVFS

Hello and welcome to the show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto. 

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource. 

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us 'give pain the middle finger for good'! 

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions. 

Thank you, and welcome to the show! 

Your shoulder functions like a golf ball balanced on a tee - a design that prioritizes mobility over stability. This episode reveals how this unique structure creates both remarkable freedom of movement and vulnerability to injury. You'll discover the critical relationship between your shoulder blade and ball-and-socket joint, and learn why coordination between these components is essential for pain-free function.

The rotator cuff, particularly the supraspinatus muscle, often faces trouble when caught between bone structures during everyday movements. Carl explains how impingement develops, what bursitis really means, and shares a surprisingly effective 15-second ice application technique that outperforms traditional methods. He also sheds light on biceps tendonitis and what actually happens during a tendon rupture.

Most importantly, walk away with practical knowledge about movements to avoid (reaching behind car seats, "empty can" exercises) and safer alternatives for strengthening your shoulder (Arnold presses, proper rows). Learn why keeping objects close to your body during lifting prevents those 200 inch-pounds of force that can damage vulnerable tissues. Whether you're dealing with current shoulder pain or want to prevent future problems, this episode provides the mechanical insights and practical tips to give shoulder pain the middle finger. Watch for upcoming opportunities to consult directly with Carl about your specific shoulder concerns.

Support the show

Work with Carl! Check out the website - www.carlpetitto.com

SUPPORT THE SHOW HERE: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BM23TS2LDQVFS

Hello and welcome to the show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto. 

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource. 

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us 'give pain the middle finger for good'! 

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions. 

Thank you, and welcome to the show! 

Ever feel rushed during healthcare appointments or wonder why your provider seems to be playing detective? That's exactly what we're addressing in this episode of The Hand-to-Shoulder Solution.

Healthcare visits are investigations, and your preparation determines how effectively providers can solve your case. When symptoms appear mysterious or treatment results disappoint, the solution often lies in better preparation. I walk you through creating a simple symptom timeline that transforms your provider's understanding - documenting when problems began, whether injuries occurred, and tracking symptom progression. These details might seem minor but provide critical diagnostic clues that guide treatment decisions.

Medical record management represents another crucial preparation area patients overlook. I share practical systems for organizing test results and imaging studies, preventing unnecessary duplications while ensuring continuity between providers. You'll learn why arriving early matters so much (providers review your case before seeing you!) and how insurance verification prevents unpleasant financial surprises.

The difference between feeling rushed through appointments versus receiving comprehensive care often comes down to these simple preparation steps. By implementing these strategies, you transform yourself from a passive healthcare recipient into an active participant in your treatment journey. Try these preparations before your next appointment and experience the difference in your care quality!

Support the show

Work with Carl! Check out the website - www.carlpetitto.com

SUPPORT THE SHOW HERE: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BM23TS2LDQVFS

Hello and welcome to the show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto. 

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource. 

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us 'give pain the middle finger for good'! 

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions. 

Thank you, and welcome to the show! 

Breaking the cycle of pain starts with finding the right expertise. For countless patients bouncing between clinics without answers, the frustration compounds their physical discomfort. As a Board Certified Hand Therapist with extensive private practice experience, I am creating a bridge for this critical gap in care. If you are a provider or a clinic email me at [email protected] to set up a one-on-one consultation and we can review all of this details that I am talking about in this episode. 

When more specialized care is needed, I can guide you toward the right resources in your region. No more wasted appointments or growing frustration—just clear pathways toward relief. I am here to help!

Beyond patient care I love to be a comprehensive resource for therapists and facilities developing hand therapy practices. From essential supply lists and compliant billing practices to efficient patient processing systems, I provide the operational guidance that transforms good intentions into exceptional care delivery. My mentorship programs will help therapists optimize evaluation techniques, perfect orthosis fabrication, and implement evidence-based treatment progressions. The ultimate goal? Creating patient experiences where confidence in providers translates directly to better outcomes through consistent attendance, full participation, and positive attitudes toward recovery.

Ready to give pain the middle finger? Email me at [email protected] today to explore our resources or schedule your consultation. 

Like and subscribe to our channel to support our mission and engage with our community. 

Your questions and feedback drive our content—let's work together toward lasting solutions for hands and shoulders everywhere.

Support the show

Work with Carl! Check out the website - www.carlpetitto.com

SUPPORT THE SHOW HERE: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BM23TS2LDQVFS

Hello and welcome to the show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto. 

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource. 

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us 'give pain the middle finger for good'! 

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions. 

Thank you, and welcome to the show!