1. A Modern Office Malady
Carpal tunnel syndrome is the price we pay for our computer-obsessed society. This condition manifests itself with pain and muscle weakness in the wrist and hand, partly because of repetitive motion of typing or working with a computer and mouse. Carpal tunnel gets its name from the area of the hand where the condition occurs; the "tunnel" made up of the ligaments and the wrist or carpal bones found in the palm of your hand. Tendons pass through this canal and when they are weak or irritated along with the median nerve, it's difficult for the victim to continue working.
2. Many Jobs Lead to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
While repetitive movements of the wrist and hand like data entry or playing video games can cause muscle cramps in the fingers and hands and damage the median nerve, there's no conclusive evidence that this alone is the cause of carpal tunnel syndrome. If you have a smaller carpal tunnel, repetitive motions are more likely to cause nerve damage. Factory and construction jobs that require hours of repetitive movements, like cutting meat or using power tools can also exacerbate carpal tunnel.
3. Non-Invasive Options Available
If caught early enough, carpal tunnel syndrome can be nipped in the bud by resting the hands for a few weeks. That means no typing, no video games, no Web surfing, no repetitive motions of any kind. Your doctor may also suggest placing a cast or splint on the wrist and hand or injecting lidocaine into the wrist.
4. Surgery Is Sometimes Required
Doctors perform several procedures to alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome. A joint and soft tissue injection can ease pain by channeling medicine into the inflamed area. Operating on the hand to relieve pressure on the transverse carpal ligament so it no longer presses on the nerves works for more severe cases. Recovery time for these procedures is minimal, usually lasting a few days.
5. Make Workstations Carpal Tunnel Friendly
With the number of office workers and others chained to a computer all day, more efficient keyboards, ergonomic computer workstations and wrist rests are now part of most computer setups. Using a wrist rest, for example, diminishes stress and prevents the awkward wrist movements that compromise nerves and muscles in the wrist. Even an ergonomically correct workstation, however is no substitute for good working posture. To maintain a good workstation posture and prevent strain on the body, keep your head level and bend it slightly as you type. Align your torso with your head and keep your elbows close to the body. Put your hands, wrists and forearms in a straight line facing the computer screen while you work.
