The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke defines carpal tunnel syndrome as a condition caused by a pinched or compressed median nerve, which is the nerve that runs from the forearm to the palm and controls the thumb, three middle fingers, and some hand muscles.
Some people mistakenly refer to the condition as “carpal tunnel,” when in fact the carpal tunnel is the anatomical structure affected by the syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the medical term for the pain and functionality issues that can result from repeated stress on the region, which houses the median nerve and wrist tendons.
While carpal tunnel syndrome is often associated with employees whose careers require frequent keyboard use, the lesser-known truth is that it also (and often more commonly) affects assembly line workers such as manufacturers, cleaners, and meat packers.
Most available data seems to suggest that carpal tunnel is brought on by predisposed anatomy (for instance, a person born with a smaller carpal tunnel may be more likely to suffer from symptoms later in life) as well as factors such as traumatic injury and joint problems. However, daily personal habits can take a toll on the hands and wrist, so maintenance and treatment are necessary if symptoms begin to develop.
Although treatment is possible after the onset of carpal tunnel, preventative care is best to avoid symptoms such as wrist, hand, finger, and arm pain; weakened grip strength; numbness and tingling; and potentially permanent damage in severe chronic cases. Here are a few tips to prevent the condition from developing, plus what to do if you’re experiencing pain.
Practice Proper Posture and Form
To practice proper keyboard form and mitigate stress to the area, your wrists should remain in a relaxed and level horizontal position. When using a keyboard at a desk, they should gently hover near elbow level. Make sure you aren’t bending your wrists at an acute angle. A wrist rest can help elevate your hands to appropriate keyboard height and reduce strain.
Be mindful of your body posture, as slouching shoulders can throw off your form (in addition to causing potential neck and back issues).
[Related: Three Ways to Improve Back Health If You Work a Desk Job]
Take Regular Breaks
If your job description includes performing tasks that don’t place pressure on the wrist (or in other words, if you’re able to step away from your keyboard for a couple hours each day), take care to introduce variety to your daily agenda and schedule low-impact activities in between typing spurts.
Allow yourself intermittent breaks from projects that require heavy hand, wrist, finger, and limb use. Use this time to stretch and flex your wrists and release tension.
Use Wrist Supports
A brace or wrist wrap is a temporary, no-brainer solution to keep strained wrists stable. One important caveat when using a brace: It is not a permanent or long-term fix. Any wrist pain will still require treatment. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive condition, and unaddressed symptoms can return or intensify.
Seek Chiropractic Treatment
If you are experiencing symptoms that you suspect might be associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, don’t hesitate to seek a professional opinion. Even if are not yet experiencing pain symptoms, a professional chiropractor can provide preventative care and educate patients with tips to avoid stress injuries and strain.
Though possible treatments may include adjustments of the upper spine, wrist, elbow, or arm, Dr. Spencer will evaluate each patient on a case-by-case basis to determine the best course of chiropractic treatment. Contact us today for an appointment!