If you work in a typical office environment, hunched over your desk for most of the day typing on a computer, you are at risk for developing carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition can result from highly repetitive work such as data entry and affects a major nerve in your wrist. When the nerve becomes compressed you may experience pain and numbness that can turn into excruciating pain that travels up your arm. If you want to decrease your chances of developing carpel tunnel syndrome, take heed of the following tips.
Learn How to Recognize Symptoms
The first signs of carpel tunnel syndrome include a tingling or burning sensation in your fingers and hands. Swollen fingers and itchy palms are also common symptoms. You may also notice that your grip strength has decreased.
In addition, some people have frequent urges to shake out their hands and wrists to alleviate discomfort caused by the condition. As soon as you notice any of these symptoms you should schedule an appointment with an orthopedist, a doctor that treats musculoskeletal problems. The earlier you seek help, the better your chances of receiving nonsurgical treatment for the condition.
Take Breaks
Instead of sitting at your desk straight through the day and only taking a break for lunch, you should take frequent short breaks during your work day. Even if you break for just five minutes to stretch and perform some simple exercises, you can help to ward off severe symptoms of carpel tunnel syndrome.
Exercises that can help alleviate pain from the condition include stretching your arms out and making fists to clench and unclench your muscles. You can also use squeezing balls to relieve tension
You can perform numerous other simple exercises at your desk or in the space of a small cubicle. Download apps for your smartphone that remind you to stretch and provide instructions on how to perform exercises.
Learn Good Posture
Your posture at your desk can also affect the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Poor posture can aggravate pain in your neck, shoulders, arms and wrists.
First, make sure that you have a comfortable chair. When you are working at your desk, try to avoid slouching or hunching. Keep your wrists and hands parallel to the floor and your shoulders and upper arms relaxed. You can also perform simple exercises like shoulder rolls to help improve your overall posture.
Control Pre-existing Ailments
Some medical conditions, including diabetes and arthritis, can increase your chances of developing carpel tunnel syndrome. It is important to keep these conditions under control so you do not add carpel tunnel syndrome to your list of ailments.
If the condition is serious enough, you may need to see an orthopedic surgeon for help with the problem.
Share
