Carpal tunnel syndrome can be a debilitating condition, especially if working on a computer or needing to repetitively lift boxes. Over time, carpal tunnel syndrome may lead to leaving a job, as the form of work exacerbates the problem. One way to prevent the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome is to exercise the arms and hands in ways that move them out of repetitive motions. Consistently exercising the limbs strengthens them and works against the inflammation that is often a part of the condition.
Identification
The musculoskeletal or neuromusculoskeletal problems known as carpal tunnel syndrome occur in the nerves, muscles and joints, according to Roger Rahn, DC in "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 90% Misdiagnosed: For Patient & Provider." Pain in the hands or arms can be so excruciating that patients have a hard time sleeping at night or doing simple movements throughout the day. This may mean changing work or stopping work altogether. Therefore, working to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome at the first sign of symptoms may be extremely helpful in the long run.
Significance
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common health care problems today, according to Rahn. Stephen Bent, in the book, "Saint-Frances Guide: Clinical Clerkship in Outpatient Medicine" adds that carpal tunnel syndrome affects 0.1 percent of the population in the United States, with the most common being women and those with a history of repetitive use of the hands. Exercising and stretching the hands consistently can help to break the repetitive action of being on the computer or lifting the same object.
Types
Several exercises can be done to both prevent and help heal the hands from carpal tunnel syndrome. According to Tammy Crouch in "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Repetitive Strain Injuries," strengthening the hand through using therapy putty or a rubber ball may help to improve strength and flexibility. To strengthen wrist muscles, use light weights, such as a dumbbell that holds 1 to 2 lbs. The forearm muscles can be strengthened by grasping the elbow of the injured hand, making a fist and then releasing that hand or by doing curls with light weights.
Time Frame
To prevent carpal tunnel syndrome from occurring, hand, wrist and arm exercises should be done consistently. Ideally, these exercises should be done every day that the hands are being used in a repetitive motion or at least three times a week. Exercises should not be done when suffering from any inflammation or numbness in the arms or hands, according to Crouch.
Considerations
If you are concerned that you may already have carpal tunnel syndrome, see a health care professional that can properly diagnose the problem. Drugs or surgery may be necessary to ease pain. Be careful to not exercise arms and hands when suffering pain or discomfort. Learning how to properly lift weights, even small ones, will also help to avoid possible injury.
References
- "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 90% Misdiagnosed: For Patient & Provider"; Roger Rahn, DC; 2005
- "Saint-Frances Guide: Clinical Clerkship in Outpatient Medicine"; Stephen Bent; 2007
- "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Repetitive Strain Injuries"; Tammy Crouch; 1996
