I spend a lot of time here on my computer, typing up new blog posts every week.  I’ve always been told to be careful because people who spend lots of time on the computer can get carpal tunnel syndrome.  Imagine my surprise when I learned that carpal tunnel syndrome is not a new condition resulting from computers and technology.  It’s actually been around quite a long time!

To start, the carpal tunnel is literally a tunnel that houses the median nerve (which services the fingers and hand), carpal bones, tendons and ligaments.  It is thought that carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tendons become irritated and swollen pressing on the median nerve. 

Pain is found in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and the thumb side of the ring finger all the way down through the palm to the wrist.  Symptoms include burning, tingling or itching numbness in the palm of the hand and the fingers.

Repetitive movements of the hand and wrist can cause carpal tunnel syndrome and it is three times more likely to occur in women, mostly because women have smaller wrists.  And surprisingly, carpal tunnel syndrome is three times more common among assemblers than among data-entry personnel.

There are several different paths to take for treatment that include medication, exercise or surgery.  Treatment should be started right away under the care of a physician to avoid making the pain worse. 

Here are a couple of good practices to help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome:

• Stretching exercises 
• Correct wrist position
• Frequent breaks are good for those on a computer
• Wrist rests are available at most office supply stores to place in front of a keyboard.  It’s sort of like a pillow for the wrists! 
• Wrist splints
• Fingerless gloves help keep the wrist warm and flexible

Don’t take carpal tunnel syndrome lightly.  It can be very painful and inconvenient.  It’s just one of the ways your body is telling you to take care it!  If you have any tips on prevention of pain relief, let me know!

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