Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. This can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is often caused by repetitive motions of the wrist and hand, such as typing on a computer keyboard or assembling small parts in a factory. It can also be caused by conditions such as pregnancy, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome may include rest, splinting, and physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
The signs and symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome may include:
Numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in the fingers, hand, or wrist. This is often most noticeable in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger.
Pain or discomfort in the hand, wrist, or arm that may extend up into the elbow.
Weakness in the hand and fingers, which may cause difficulty with gripping or grasping objects.
A feeling of clumsiness or difficulty with fine motor tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or tying shoelaces.
Swelling or tenderness in the wrist or hand.
A decrease in hand strength or dexterity.
A change in the shape of the hand or fingers, such as a visibly swollen or enlarged wrist.
These symptoms may be worse at night or after engaging in activities that involve repetitive hand movements. They may also be triggered by cold temperatures or stress.
There are several things you can do to help manage the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
Rest your hand and wrist: Avoid activities that require repetitive hand movements or put pressure on your wrist. You may also want to try wearing a splint at night to keep your wrist in a neutral position.
Apply ice: Applying an ice pack to your wrist for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and numbness.
Take over-the-counter pain medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Try wrist stretches and exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the wrist and hand can help improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.
Adjust your workstation: If you work at a desk, make sure your chair, keyboard, and mouse are properly aligned to reduce strain on your wrist. Take frequent breaks and stretch your hands and wrists regularly.
Consult a healthcare professional: If your symptoms are severe or do not improve with self-care measures, you should see a healthcare professional. They may recommend additional treatment options such as physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgery.
Please make an appointment with a medical professional if you believe you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Diagnosis is made via Electromyography, a fast and easy test to study the health and function of your nerves. There are many treatment options if your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome does not get better on its own.
At Home Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
By far and away, a Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace is the best at home treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Using this brace, especially at night, most people will be able to arrest or treat their mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome. Most people sleep just fine while using this brace and it treats the condition as you sleep!
The logitech K350 wireless ergonomic keyboard provides a much easier and safer position for typing that will help prevent long term wrist strain and nerve injury. The curved position of the keys allows for a much more natural typing position while the padded wrist support prevents pressure building up in focused locations.
Gimars Memory Foam Wrist Pad
Gimars Memory Foam Wrist Pad will help relieve the high pressure areas which cause the nerve to become irritated. Allowing for daily and long term use of keyboard and mouse without buildup of pressure and nerve irritation.
Without the full upgrade to a supportive ergonomic keyboard, the supportive gel wrist pad is the next best thing. These can also be useful on the go or with a laptop for when you are not at home or at your permanent work space, allowing for continued support on the road.
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