Doctors’ Tips for Working with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be painful and frustrating – and certain types of work can be the cause of (or an aggravating factor in) your discomfort.
Of course, the best course of action is to see an experienced Carpal Tunnel Syndrome doctor who can diagnose and treat your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Dr. Rehman has provide relief for hundreds of patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in her Shelby Township and Bloomfield Hills offices.
In the meantime, Doctor Rehman offers these tips for making your hands and wrists more comfortable while working.
Tips for Working with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is often the result of holding the hand and wrist in the same position for a long time, and/or the result of repetitive motions of the hand or wrist. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be made even worse if the tasks keep the wrist bent either up or down – or involve putting pressure on the wrist.
Here is a list of seven things you can do at work to help ease the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
#1. Keep the wrist in a straight, neutral position when you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Wrist braces and gel wrist supports are a couple tools that can help you keep your wrist straight, rather than at an angle, while working.
#2. Avoid tasks that put pressure on the wrist when you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Pushing a screwdriver or lifting objects, etc. can put pressure on your wrist. Try to perform these tasks with the other hand – or see if another employee can assume these type of duties for you. For example, see if you can “swap” operating a c ash register and bagging groceries for a job at the customer service desk!
#3. Rest your hands and wrists every hour when you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Regularly give your wrists and hands a break from work activities that trigger your symptoms. To do so, take a break for 10 to 15 minutes every hour and stretch your hands. Set an alarm on your phone, if you need a reminder!
#4. Use only as much force as you need when you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Remember not to hold your tools too tightly, or “pound” your keyboard. Being gentle on yourself and your arms, hands and wrists can go a long way toward alleviating daily flare ups of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
#5. Be aware of your posture when you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Try to remember not to roll your shoulders forward. This can set off a chain reaction that makes Carpal Tunnel wrist problems even worse. Proper back and lumbar support (including a good desk chair) can help keep your back and neck aligned – which will help minimize some Carpal Tunnel symptoms.
#6. Stop smoking and avoid cigarette smoke to help Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is, at its core, an inflammatory condition. And smoking (or second hand smoke) can make it much more difficult for the body to fight inflammation. Quitting smoking is not only great for your overall health, it can also help the body experience less inflammation including that from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
#7. Over the counter medications for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Over the counter anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen, Advil, aspirin and naproxen can give temporary relief from the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome while you are at work.
However, keep in mind that this is not a cure – and that long term use of these medications can cause liver, kidney and intestinal damage.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Doctor Bloomfield Hills
If you think you may be suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, contact Dr. Rehman for a comprehensive evaluation and consultation. As with most medical conditions, early detection, awareness, and a prevention or treatment plan is the most effective way to combat the effects of conditions like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
