Sun 8 Nov 2009
As more and more people have jobs that use the computer and require long periods of time typing, more people are suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome. The information age has brought about large changes in the nature of the work-a-day world. No longer are we employed in jobs that require the use of large motions and movements. Instead we are confined to a seated position throughout the day and performing repetitive motions. This is causing a sudden rise in the incidence of carpal tunnel syndrome. Everyone who owns a computer knows the discomfort of two much time spent typing or knows someone who suffers from this painful condition.
Most people seek the advice of a medical practitioner when the pain becomes so severe as to interfere with their day to day activities. Changing your activities and developing a treatment plan is the only way to heal a case of carpal tunnel syndrome. Often, family physicians will offer a diagnosis, but some will refer you to a specialist. It may be helpful to seek a second opinion, particularly if you are not satisfied with the first diagnosis or need reassurance on the treatment plan offered by the first physician. Make sure you understand what they are telling you about your condition and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
One of the first steps you can take to help alleviate the pain of carpal tunnel syndrome is to purchase a wrist brace. They are available at any local pharmacy and come in a variety of styles and sizes. They are made out of different types of materials and you may end of trying several before you find the one that works well for you. A wrist brace will help support your wrist and make your daily work and sleeping less painful. Ask the sales staff to help you find the right brace with the right fit. A brace should relieve the pain and numbness you are experiencing when worn regularly. If it does not, return it and try a different brace.
Some people will need their wrist brace only for use during the day while they are at work. These types of braces help keep their wrist immobile while still performing daily activities. This can help keep you from injuring your wrists further and is a great way to train yourself into keeping your wrists at a correct angle while sitting at a desk or performing a repetitive task. You may not want to keep your brace on after the day is finished but rather let your hands relax, even performing some basic stretching or muscle exercises at night to help yourself heal faster.
There are many people who will only wear their wrist braces at night. This may be the only treatment plan in place for those who have no time during the day to wear their brace or cannot perform duties while they have it on. Keeping a wrist brace on at night can prevent prolonged wrist flexion or extension while you sleep. Be sure to take some time for your wrist stretches and exercises no matter if you are using the wrist brace during the evening, the daytime, or both.
The median nerve is compressed at the wrist location and can cause numbness or a tingling sensation or even muscle weakness. Tom Nicholson has been helping sufferers of CTS learn basic exercises that can ease the pain and suffering caused by this reptitive stress injury for years. Click on this link to start practicing some basic carpal tunnel exercises that can ease the pain of CTS.
categories: carpal tunnel exercise,carpal tunnel cure,carpal tunnel treatment,carpal tunnel syndrome,carpal tunnel,health,medicine,injury,disease,physical therapy,exercise,fitness,yoga,posture
