Reducing the Risk of Developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The painful symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome have really come to light due to the growth and convenience of the modern computer. The repetitive typing involved with computer use has greatly escalated the amount of sufferers of this syndrome. However, any occupation or hobby that involves the repetitive use of the fingers is a high risk factor for the development of carpal tunnel syndrome. Jackhammer operators, musicians, bookkeepers and assembly line workers are examples of such occupations. Regardless of the cause of carpal tunnel syndrome there are a variety of different measures we can take to reduce our risk of developing this disease.

1) Using the correct posture is an especially effective measure for reducing the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome for computer typists. Experts recommend that we adjust the seat height so that our knees form a right angle and our feet sit flat on the floor. Forearms should be parallel to the floor with the hands and wrists forming a consistent straight line. We should not slouch or bend forward in the chair, but sit up straight and tilt back just a little. The ideal position for the computer screen is just below the line of sight and two feet in front of the eyes.

If your chair, computer and desk setup don’t allow you to assume the suggested positions and hinders your ability to keep your wrists straight that opt for a wrist rest pad to place in front of the keyboard. This can be a great help.

2) When there is a possibility, use a tool or implement to replace motions that bend the wrist sharply.

3) Use a firm but not excessive grip that uses the whole hand and not just the fingers when holding an object.

4) Take advantage of arm wrests. This reduces the amount of flexing in the wrists.

5) Slow down wrist movements. Sharp or quick motions can increase the strain on the wrist.

6) Transfer some of the strain from your wrists to your elbows. We can do this by keeping the elbows bent which lessens the load near the body reducing the amount of force for the required task.

7) Ensure we eat the correct nutrition that supports joint health and combats inflammation. You can find out more information about this and find natural remedies for inflammatory and joint conditions at juicing recipes.