Take a Break!

 

Getting a hand up on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Tips!

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful hand disorder caused by stressful and repetitive motions of the hand. Although the site of injury is the wrist, pain is usually felt in the hand. Excessive movement of the wrists or holding the wrists in static positions for long periods of time can irritate the nerves, tendon, and arteries inside a narrow formation of ligament and bone at the wrist - the carpal tunnel.

When using a keyboard or typewriter, move only the fingers - always maintain a straight-wrist position. If your keyboard has a pad at the bottom, use it to rest your wrists during breaks.

Before beginning a tying job and during breaks throughout the day, take time to do the following stretching exercise. Gently press the hand against a firm, flat surface, stretching the fingers and the wrist. Hold for five seconds.

Strengthen the muscles along the wrist with the following isometric exercise:

Clench fist tightly, then release, fanning out finning out fingers. Repeat five times.

None of the stretches or exercises should cause pain or discomfort. If you symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, consult a physical therapist or other qualified health car practitioner for an evaluation and individualized ergonomic and or treatment plan.

 

By The American Physical Therapy Association.