How to Prevent Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel is a common condition that affects millions of people, causing pain, numbness, and other symptoms in the hands and wrists. It is caused by repetitive motion, such as typing or clicking a mouse. Fortunately, many ways to prevent carpal tunnel include simple lifestyle changes and exercises. You can keep carpal tunnel at bay and protect your hands and wrists with the right actions.

The Regional Hand Center is a top-notch medical center that has been treating carpal tunnel and other hand conditions for many years. Preventing carpal tunnel is a part of our hand care program at the Regional Hand Center. The following are some of the best ways to prevent carpal tunnel.

1. Take Breaks

One of the easiest ways to prevent carpal tunnel is by simply taking breaks. If you have a job that requires a lot of typing or clicking, take a break every 30 minutes. This will help reduce repetitive motion and the strain on your hands and wrists.

2. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is one of the best ways to prevent carpal tunnel. This includes specific strength-building exercises for your hands and wrists. Our hand specialists can give you an effective exercise regimen to help prevent carpal tunnel.

3. Visit Your Doctor

It is important to visit your hand specialist if you have any symptoms of carpal tunnel. We can perform a physical exam and tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. We can also help you reverse and prevent your symptoms with the right steps.

If you have carpal tunnel, your hand specialist may recommend surgery to relieve the structures causing the carpal tunnel. If surgery is not recommended, they may suggest a simple treatment like splinting, which will help to relieve the swelling and pressure in your hand.

4. Improve Your Posture

Proper posture is the most important step in preventing carpal tunnel. When sitting at your desk, ensure that you sit upright and keep your wrists straight. Also, make sure that your arms and hands stay upright. Consider a wrist rest to avoid putting pressure on your wrists when using the computer.

5. Keep Warm

If you live in a cold environment, it’s important to wear gloves to keep your hands warm. A heated workspace is also ideal – cold temperatures can put strain on your body, making it more susceptible to injury.

6. Wear Supportive Wrist Braces

Wrist braces can help to reduce pain and increase comfort by distributing pressure. This can help ease and prevent carpal tunnel by taking pressure off the wrists.

Schedule an Appointment

Regional Hand Center is here to help you prevent and treat carpal tunnel syndrome. To learn more about carpal tunnel and how to treat it, contact our Fresno, CA office by calling or filling out our online contac t form.