Tips for Avoiding Carpal Tunnel

Answer 1

Carpal tunnel can be a condition that makes working painful, and may even incur many costly medical bills if you need to have surgery to correct the condition. In most people, avoiding carpal tunnel is as simple as performing a few stretching exercises a day, and taking proper rest breaks to ensure you aren't overworking the tendons associated with the condition.

The Basics

Some careers are more likely to cause carpal tunnel than others. Repetitive motion is one of the main factors in developing carpal tunnel, but that doesn't mean that everyone who works with their hands extensively will develop the condition. In fact, there are quite a few things that you can do to assist in avoiding carpal tunnel syndrome. For example, using an ergonomically designed keyboard and writing station can assist in reducing the chances of developing the condition for those spending a lot of time on the computer for work.

You will also need to be able to identify the early symptoms of carpal tunnel. The main symptoms include tingling and numbness of the hands. Early identification and treatment can be very helpful in avoiding carpal tunnel from becoming so severe it requires surgery or other invasive treatments. You can also begin taking steps to ensure the condition doesn't affect your work or lifestyle.

Taking a Time Out

Avoiding carpal tunnel can become a part of your daily routine, especially when you have a daily history of the condition that affects a close family member. To avoid damage that occurs from repetitive motion, such as typing, you will need to begin taking breaks on a regular hourly basis. Stretch your arms out, then allow them to dangle by your sides. Take the time to shake your body out to reduce any tension that has built up in your muscles to help reduce stress and avoid carpal tunnel.

If you are working at a desk, you will also need to learn how to hold your arms and hands to aid in avoiding carpal tunnel syndrome. A desk that is at elbow level is ideal, but you also need to hold your hands so that your wrists are parallel to the floor. Holding your arms, hands and wrists as straight as possible increases blood flow through the area, which can help prevent injuries and carpal tunnel. This is especially important if you work at a computer for long hours every day. You may want to invest in a supportive wrist pad to place in front of your keyboard, as well. The pad will provide a simple solution to holding your hands and wrists straight, while also reducing stress on the muscles and tendons in the wrist.