It starts as a tingling feeling that you can easily brush off. Before you know it, the pain becomes unbearable and your hands are gradually getting weaker. More than 8 million people are affected by Carpal Tunnel Syndrome each year in the US alone and only 23% of them can go back to their professions after surgery.
Carpal Tunnel happens when a nerve on the wrist got compressed which causes numbness and tingling feeling. It is triggered by activities that put too much pressure on your wrists such as typing, using a mouse, knitting, hairstyling and many more. If your job requires you to be on your computer and type all day, this is how you can avoid getting Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Take Breaks
In order to not overwork your wrists, taking frequent breaks from your work is important. Stretch your fingers and wrists when you take your breaks. Stretching before and after your activities help too.
2. Keep Your Wrists Straight
When doing your work, try as much as possible to keep your wrists straight and not bent in any way. This can be achieved by adjusting your keyboard position, keeping it on elbow level or lower.
3. Keep Your Hands and Wrists Warm
Keeping your hands and wrists warm can help reduce the stiffness in your muscles. One way to do this, especially during in the colder seasons, is to buy a pair of fingerless gloves. This ensures that your hands and wrists are kept warm and toasty.
4. Talk to Someone About it
If you think that your job requires strain on your hands and wrists, talk to an occupational therapist about it. If you feel even the slightest symptom in your wrists. Your doctor will be able to tell you the dos and don’ts as well as stretches you can do to avoid Carpal Tunnel.
Although Carpal Tunnel is definitely treatable with certain supporting tools and oral medications, the effect can be pretty long-term. It is still the best option to prevent it altogether rather than going through a painful and costly surgery.