Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition affecting the hand and wrist. It can trigger uncomfortable symptoms including tingling, pain, numbness, and weakness that may interfere with your day-to-day. Thankfully, there are strategies to avoid carpal tunnel before it develops.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed, causing numbness, pain, and tingling in the hand and forearm. The median nerve supplies sensory and motor function to the forearm, wrist, and hand. It extends through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passage surrounded by ligaments and bones at the base of the wrist.
The following factors can cause carpal tunnel syndrome:
- An inflamed or enlarged median nerve
- Inflamed or enlarged tendons around the carpal tunnel
- A thickened transverse carpal ligament (the ligament located at the top of the carpal tunnel)
- A cyst or tumor in the carpal tunnel
How to Prevent Carpal Tunnel
While certain underlying medical conditions can increase your risk of carpal tunnel, lifestyle factors also play a role in the development of this condition. So, the following steps may help you avoid carpal tunnel by preventing inflammation of the median nerve and surrounding tendons and ligaments:
- Limit repetitive hand and wrist movements.
- Avoid extending or flexing the wrist for extended periods.
- If your profession requires repetitive hand motions, alternative between other tasks to reduce the stress on your hands and wrists.
- Limit the time spent holding an object in the same way.
- Alter your chair, desk, and keyboard so that your forearms are even with the work surface.
- If you tend to sleep with your wrists in a bent position, consider wearing a splint at night.
Regenerative therapies may help reduce inflammation and pain from carpal tunnel syndrome. Contact the Regenerative Orthopedic Institute today to schedule a consultation!