If you feel pain, tingling, or numbness in your fingers, you may be wondering about carpal tunnel syndrome. This is a common situation that affects people in a variety of jobs, from data entry to meat packaging.
This happens when the median nerve is under stress. This is how the thumb and all fingers feel, except the little finger. As the median nerve passes through the wrist, it passes through the carpal tunnel (the narrow passage of bones and ligaments). If the wrist is swollen, this channel can be pinched by the median nerve and cause symptoms.
Surgery may be required for more severe carpal tunnel syndrome. But if you catch it fast enough, simpler options like wrist braces and painkillers may work.
When should I call the doctor?
Early treatment is the key to carpal tunnel syndrome. Book if you have the following common symptoms:
- Burning sensation, numbness, tingling, or pain in the fingers and thumb-these symptoms can be exacerbated after falling asleep.
- Throw things out more often than usual
- Weakness of your hands
Most people bend their wrists when they go to bed. This puts pressure on the median nerve. Brace helps keep your wrists straight and in a neutral position. According to a 2012 study, using a wristband at night was more effective in relieving carpal tunnel symptoms than without any treatment.
It may also be useful to wear a brace during the day, especially in an emergency. Repeated movements and extra pressure on the wrist can exacerbate the symptoms. If your work allows, try wearing a brace while you work.
Be sure to keep moving your wrist after removing it. This helps keep the muscles loose and strong. Avoid stress or excessive pressure on your wrists.
You can find wristbands, sometimes called sprints, in most drug stores. Or an occupational therapist can make it for you. When placing the stand, you need to be comfortable but not too tight. Do not put any more pressure on the carpal tunnel.
Do Compressed Gloves Really Work?
it depends. These are usually most useful for people with mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome. People who used it tended to report that their symptoms did not last long. When they woke up, their wrists were also numb, tingling, and not burning.
Remember that there is no perfect bracket. It may be helpful to try different brands to see if they can relieve the pain. The effect may not last for 3-4 weeks.
What Exacerbates Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
As you start your day, find a way to reduce the stress on your wrists. There are a few things to keep in mind.
Do not bend your wrists up or down. A more neutral position in the center of the range of motion is best.
Keep your hands warm. Cold hands can exacerbate your pain and stiffness.
Rest your hands and wrists as often as possible. Don't overuse them.
Switch tasks as much as possible so that you don't repeat the same action over and over again.
Writer. More relaxed grip and movement can ease tensions when it comes to tools and keyboards.