How to prevent carpal tunnel

How to Prevent Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when there’s pressure on the median nerve. Wondering how to prevent carpal tunnel? While there is no one thing that is going to 100% prevent carpal tunnel without a doubt, there are things you can do to minimise the stress and pressure on the hand and wrist and reduce your chances of developing carpal tunnel. Keep reading to find out what you can do.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause tingling and numbness in the hands and fingers. The condition is caused by pressure on a nerve that runs through the wrist. Symptoms of carpal tunnel include pain and weakness in the fingers and arms. 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome anatomy, the Harley Clinic

How to Prevent Carpal Tunnel 

Workstation Ergonomics for Carpal Tunnel 

If you work at a desk, start by adjusting your workstation. Factors like proper seating and good hand and wrist placement are important in decreasing some of the things that can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. For your workstation, double-check that your forearms are level with your work surface. You may need to adjust your desk, chair, keyboard, and mouse. 

Try to take regular breaks when working and make sure to stretch during the day. Whether it’s a coffee break or lunchtime walk, step away from your work and stretch your hands for 10 minutes. The idea is to minimise those repetitive movements, so by taking breaks and ensuring you have the right work set up, you give yourself a better foundation to prevent carpal tunnel. 

Carpal Tunnel Prevention: What Else Can You Do?

Because carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by several factors, it’s difficult to prevent it entirely. As many activities in life can cause carpal tunnel to flare up, carpal tunnel prevention tends to need a multi-pronged approach. The main way to prevent carpal tunnel is by reducing the stress and pressure on the wrist to stop it from getting any worse. 

If you’re wondering how to prevent carpal tunnel, other preventative measures include: 

  • Alternative activities so that you don’t use your hand and wrist all the time 
  • Keep your wrist in a neutral or straight position 
  • Avoid holding an object for too long in the same way 
  • Loosen up your grip 
  • Wear a splint at night to keep the wrist straight while asleep 
  • Stretch before and after exercise and activities 
  • Avoid curling your wrists a lot and repeatedly 
  • Monitor for carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms and seek help if you need it 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery at The Harley Clinic 

There are several things you can do to reduce the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Taking regular breaks, stretching, and creating an ergonomic workstation are important. Whether you work from home, in the office, or on-site, it’s crucial to evaluate your work set-up as this is where you spend a lot of time. 

If you’re experiencing pain and numbness in the wrist and hands, it’s essential to speak with your doctor as soon as you notice symptoms. Some conditions are often misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel, so it’s crucial to get the right diagnosis so you can begin treatment as soon as possible. 

Often, a non-surgical approach can benefit mild carpal tunnel syndrome using treatments like hand therapy and splinting. In severe cases, your doctor may recommend carpal tunnel syndrome surgery. 

If you’re considering hand surgery or struggling with carpal tunnel syndrome, book a consultation today at The Harley Clinic to discuss your treatment options. 

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