The carpal tunnel is responsible for protecting a major nerve that leads to your hand and fingers. Too much pressure in the tunnel causes pressure on the nerve -- and symptoms such as pain and numbness. Carpal tunnel syndrome often stems from repetitive use, but that's not the only culprit. The Mayo Clinic's website reports other causes may include health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Hand on Wall
You stretch your forearm and wrist -- plus you take time to breathe -- with this exercise. Stand with your right side facing a wall, arm's length away. With your arm straight and your fingers spread out, gently press your right palm into the wall. Slowly rotate your head around to the left and move your right shoulder forward as far as you comfortably can. Hold three seconds and return to your starting position. Repeat on the other side. Do three repetitions on each side.
Hand Bend
The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests another wrist exercise to lower your risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. Stand up straight with your feet hip-distance apart. Stretch your right arm straight in front of you parallel to the ground. Your palm should face out, and your fingers should be together. Use your left hand to gently bend back the fingers of your right hand as far as you comfortably can. Hold for five seconds with the fingers of your right hand still together. Relax your hands, spread out the fingers and thumb of your right hand and repeat the bend for another five seconds. Do the same thing with the other hand. Perform five repetitions on each side.
Head Tilt
You should also exercise your neck and shoulders to stave off carpal tunnel symptoms, according to the University of Maryland. Sit straight in a chair with your feet hip-distance apart. Put your right hand on top of your left shoulder to hold it down. Slowly lower your right ear toward your right shoulder until you feel a gentle stretch. Keep looking straight ahead during this exercise. Hold for five seconds, return to your starting position and repeat on the other side. Do this exercise a few minutes several times a day for maximum benefit.
Wall Stretch
You get a shoulder stretch -- and a full-body stretch -- when you do this exercise. Stand up straight right in front of a wall and place your arms as high as you can on that wall. Stretch your arms up and plant your feet into the ground to get a downward stretch as well. Press your shoulder blades in toward the wall. Hold for two seconds and relax your shoulder blades. Do five repetitions.
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