Related Articles

Carpal tunnel syndrome, an often painful condition that's caused by swelling within a narrow opening in the wrist, is often caused by a repeated strain or pressure on the area, aggravating the median nerve running through the passageway.

Repeated movements throughout the course of the day, such as those associated with computer use and typing, put excess pressure on the carpal tunnel. This causes symptoms like pain, tingling, and numbness, not only in the hands, but also the fingers, wrists, and forearms. Injuries to the wrist and conditions such as pregnancy, arthritis, or diabetes may also be to blame for carpal tunnel syndrome -- making an accurate diagnosis imperative.

Physical therapy can be used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome as well as non-prescription medications, but in some cases surgery is called for. There are exercises you can practice to alleviate the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, and you can find them in online videos and articles.

You can reduce the risk of getting carpal tunnel syndrome with some precautions. Positioning your hand and arms in the right manner can reduce the risk without exercises. Ergonomics can not only help prevent the condition, but can also reduce the symptoms if you already have carpal tunnel syndrome. Your upper arms should be neutral, shoulders should be relaxed, and your keyboard should be directly in front of you.

To achieve optimal comfort with no pressure or strain, change the level of your bureau so that the keyboard allows you to be comfortable. Try not to put your wrists on any rough surfaces, and avoid keeping them on your desk longer than necessary. This will add extra pressure on your carpal tunnel and increase the risk of injury to your hands and risks.

Here's one simple stretching exercise to try for treating carpal tunnel syndrome:

1. Extend your wrists and fingers outward, ahead of your body, positioning your hands and fingers toward the ceiling, like you are signaling someone to "stop".

2. Maintain this position while you count to five and then relax and hold your wrists straight out in front of you.

3. Then, make fists using your hands as you extend your arms to the front.

4. Rotate the wrists down to the floor while maintaining a fist and then hold for five seconds.

5. Relax and extend your wrists and hands into their customary positions, then follow the preceding steps again, up to 5-7 additional repetitions.

Find more simple ergonomic tips at Ergonomic Resources!