7 Tips For Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway surrounded by bones, tendons, and ligaments that runs down the palm side of your hand to your wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused when the median nerve running through the carpal tunnel is compressed, causing tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand, wrist, and arm.

With these simple, everyday tips, you’ll be protecting your hands and wrists and lowering your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome:

Stretch Your Wrists

Once or twice a day, stopping what you are doing to stretch your wrists gently can go a long way to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. A simple exercise you can try begins with making a fist and then opening your hand till your fingers are stretched as far as they can go, and then repeating ten times.

Practice Proper Office Ergonomics

While in an office setting, be sure you have the right set up to support your wrists as you work. Your keyboard should be within easy reach, and your chair should be positioned so that your wrists are straight when you type or use your mouse. You can also buy products to help as you work, such as a wrist cushion.

Take Breaks

While you’re busy at your job or performing a hands-on task, always be sure to take frequent breaks, giving your hands and wrists the chance to relax. Various movements and repeated motions with your hands and wrists can trigger carpal tunnel syndrome, and breaks help reduce the risk of strain.

Watch Your Posture

You may not realize, but when your back is hunched over, you may be hurting your wrists too. Maintaining proper posture helps reduce strain and pressure on your hands, wrists, and arms.

Keep Your Hands Warm

The cold can exacerbate pain and stiffness, so keeping your hands warm and cozy can help prevent your carpal tunnel syndrome risks. Make sure your room is at a comfortable temperature or wear fingerless gloves to help you avoid any chills.

Practice Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Underlying health problems such as diabetes or heart disease can increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Those who are repeated smokers are also more likely to develop this condition. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle free of smoking and with plenty of exercise and a balanced diet can keep your hands and wrists from getting weak and stiff.

Treat Your Symptoms as Soon as You Notice Them

If you notice tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hands, wrists, or arms, don’t dismiss it. Visit an orthopaedic specialist for proper care and treatment to prevent the discomfort from worsening.

Carpal Tunnel Specialist On Long Island

At Long Island Brain & Spine, we provide state-of-the-art carpal tunnel syndrome treatment to help you resume your normal activities without pain. Providing our patients with viable treatment methods utilizing innovative methods and state-of-the-art technology is our key to success.

For more information on how we can help you, please visit our website or give us a call at 631-422-5371.