Lifting weights may be a part of your normal fitness routine. Carpal tunnel syndrome requires its own set of strengthening exercises. However, performing the rest of your workout often is more challenging when faced with the pain, weakness and often tingling sensations from carpal tunnel syndrome. The weakness and pain are the result of pressure on the median nerve located in the wrist. It is often thought of as an overuse injury, but other medical conditions, such as arthritis, menopause or thyroid disorders, can cause carpal tunnel syndrome.
Step 1
Talk to your doctor before starting or resuming a weight routine. Modifications in exercises may be necessary to keep pain to a minimal.
Step 2
Wear a splint when doing non-rehabilitative exercises for your wrist and forearm. The splint keeps your wrist from flexing through exercises like bicep curls or squats.
Step 3
Perform rehabilitative exercises to strengthen the wrist and hopefully open up any stiff joints that are contributing to the pressure on the medial nerve. To perform finger extensions, place a rubber band around your fingers and open your fingers as wide as possible. Also perform wrist flexor and extensor stretches by pointing your fingers back and pointing them down.
Step 4
Ice your wrists after exercises to reduce possible swelling that would increase pressure on the nerve. Keep a pack of ice on your wrists for 20 minutes after your workout.
Tips and Warnings
- Refrain from doing weight-bearing wrist curls or any other exercises where you feel excessive pain in the wrist. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen reduce pain and inflammation.
Things You'll Need
- Wrist splint
- Ice
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