21 Feb Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Preventable?
The most common type of nerve entrapment in the human body is known as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), in which the median nerve becomes pinched in the carpal canal, at the wrist. Because the median nerve provides feeling and mobility to parts of the hand, its entrapment can cause numbness, weakness and/or pain in the hands and fingers.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs as a result of swelling to the carpal tunnel, which can be caused by repetitive hand and wrist motions, or other factors. It can be a painful and debilitating condition, but there are numerous preventative strategies and effective treatment options available for carpal tunnel syndrome, all of which are provided by Illinois Pain Institute.
Although there are multiple factors that can cause CTS, there are no proven ways to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, however, here are a few ways to prevent the amount of stress on your hands and wrists:
• Relax Your Grip: People tend to use a lot more force than usual when performing tasks with their hands. Try to relax your grip when possible, this can include typing on a keyboard or even writing with a pen. Having the hand relaxed will allow blood to flow easier though the wrist and prevent any numbness or pain.
• Take Breaks: Take a break! Give your hands and wrists a break from time to time. Gently stretching and bending the hands and wrists occasionally will help relax the system.
• Watch Your Posture and Form: Don’t bend your wrist all the way up or down. A relaxed middle position is best for your form when working or using your hands and wrists. Switch hands and change positions often when doing repeated motions. Incorrect posture can also cause your shoulders to roll forward. When this occurs, your neck and shoulder muscles are shortened, compressing nerves in your neck. This can affect your wrists, fingers, and hands.
• Strength Building: Any form of strength-building exercise is great for your joints! This can include yoga or working with weights. These exercises have proven to reduce pain and keep your wrists flexible and free.
• Warm Hands: This may seem as a surprising tip, but you are more likely to develop hand pain and stiffness if your work in a cold environment. Try to keep your hands warm when at work or home. Rubbing your hands together or wearing fingerless gloves can help with warming hands.
Of course, prevention is a key step in helping with any conditions progression, but if you suspect or do have carpal tunnel syndrome, there are treatment options available that can help. Call us today 1 (800) 340-7246 or visit our contact page.