Do you spend a lot of time on the computer using the mouse? Working long hours at the computer or constantly doing movements that put excessive pressure on the tendons in the hands and wrists can cause carpal tunnel syndrome.
Do not panic! This is a more common problem than it seems that despite being painful and uncomfortable it has a solution but luckily, with some habits or following recommendations it is possible to avoid this disorder and that is precisely what we will teach you in this publication.
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a disorder of the wrist and hand. The carpal tunnel is so named because it is a narrow tunnel formed by the bones and other tissues of the wrist that protects the median nerve. The latter is in charge of helping to move the thumbs and the first three fingers of each hand.
The syndrome occurs when other tissues (such as ligaments or tendons) become inflamed and press on the median nerve. That pressure is what causes pain, burning sensation, and numbness in those with the disorder.
What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel?
- Tingling sensation in the hand and fingers.
- Pain in the wrist, the palm of the hand, and forearm.
- Trouble grasping certain objects.
- Weakness in the thumb
How to prevent the occurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Let’s see some recommendations that will help you maintain the health of your hands and wrists:
Get into the habit of making gentle movements
Many times, we use more force than is necessary to grasp certain objects or perform certain activities. This is because we get so used to doing the same movements that we unconsciously put too much force and this is one of the main reasons why this syndrome appears.
That is why as a first recommendation we invite you to try a softer touch and have more control over the movements you make with your hands.
Take a break
If your work requires holding objects for a long time or grasping with a bent wrist, it is advisable to rest the wrist every 10 or 15 minutes.
During these breaks, you can stretch your wrists. One way to do this is to bring your palms together in front of your chest, with your fingers pointing upward, and then slowly raise your elbows until you feel a slight pull on your wrists, holding the position for 15 seconds.
Take care of your position when sleeping
At bedtime, it is important that you take care of your wrists and adopt positions that do not require so much pressure on them. Avoid sleeping with your wrists bent or under your head, ideally, these should be free of pressure at all times.
Use padded pads
If you work long hours with the computer using the mouse or mouse, it is recommended that you use padded pads that you can support your wrists when holding the mouse.
On the other hand, if you practice a profession that involves too much wrist movement, consider the use of splints to protect yourself.
Exercise your wrists
Your wrists also need constant exercise, especially if you want to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome.
There are plenty of exercises or movements for your wrists recommended by specialists that will help you keep them healthy and injury-free. A very common exercise that in addition to being effective is very easy and quick to do is to make a fist, release your fingers and open them in a fan shape, stretching them as far as you can. This movement should be repeated 10-15 times.
