Pain and tingling in the hand may be caused by a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome. With carpal tunnel syndrome, stress on the wrist and muscles in the hands leads to inflammation of tendons that run through the wrist. This inflammation can cause the median nerve to get pinched, because it runs through the middle of these tendons. Pinching of the median nerve can lead to hand pain and tingling. Treating these symptoms can be done by avoiding further stress and by reducing the inflammation of the tendons.
Step 1
Wear a splint. Many drug stores carry wrist splints and braces. Start with wearing the splint at night on the affected wrist (or on both wrists if you experience pain or tingling in both hands). If this is not sufficient, wear your splint during the day as well.
Step 2
Minimize wrist stress. You can purchase a special ergonomic keyboard and mouse if your hand pain is caused by typing. Make sure that when you type your keyboard is low enough that you don't have to bend your wrists upwards to type. Your doctor may recommend that you visit an occupational therapist to work on other techniques for minimizing wrist stress during your daily activities.
Step 3
Take NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
Step 4
Receive cortisone injections. If your hand pain or tingling is caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, an orthopedic surgeon may elect to inject cortisone into your wrist. Cortisone is a medication that can reduce inflammation, which may ease the nerve compression which is causing your symptoms.
Step 5
Consider receiving carpal tunnel release surgery. In this operation a surgeon will cut into the ligaments on your wrist, giving your tendons more space and releasing pressure on your median nerve.
Things You'll Need
- Ergonomic Products
- Wrist Splint or Brace
- NSAIDs
