Clip `N' Post - preventing carpal tunnel syndrome

American Fitness, March, 2001 by Norm Gustafson

Carpal Tunnel Combat

Ten tips to prevent the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome.

1. Avoid activities requiring excessive up-and-down (flexion and extension) and side-to-side (radial and ulnar deviation) movements of the wrist as much as possible.

2. Take regular "mini breaks" (stand, walk, stretch, etc.) at least every hour when working at the computer for long periods of time.

3. Avoid direct pressure over the heel of the hand-for exemple push-ups, tricep "dip" exercise, or pressing on hard seat surfaces when rising from a chair.

4. Avoid tight watchbands or jewelry and garments with tight elastic sleeves.

5. Avoid activities requiring forceful repetitive grasping, such as using garden shears. If these activities cannot be avoided, consider using a cushioned glove or padded tool handle.

6. When your hand feels swollen or puffy, massage from the finger tips to the base of the palm to relieve swelling.

7. Reduce the level of muscular tension during all grasp activities. For example, most people hold a pen much harder than is needed. Minimize the applied force as much as possible.

8. Avoid activities involving the use of power tools that cause significant vibration.

9. Shake your hands and wrists rapidly to increase comfort and reduce tension.

10. Always consult your doctor if you are experiencing numbness or tingling to accurately determine the cause of such discomfort and rule out a more serious problem.

Norm Gustafson is a certified hand therapist at Canoe Creek Rehab in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and a faculty member at Kent State University. For more information on this topic, contact Canoe Creek Rehab at (800) 753-1788 or www.canoecreek.com.