(Newswire.net — November 18, 2022) — Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the hand, wrist, and forearm. It is caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs from your shoulder to your hand. Repetitive motions or an injury can cause this pressure. It manifests as tingling, numbness, and pain in the affected area. CTS is a common condition affecting between 3 and 6% of adults in the United States. The condition is more common in women than men and usually occurs after age 40. You can do several things to lower your risk of developing CTS.
1. Avoid Repetitive Motions
Repetitive movements are a common trigger for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. If you have a job or hobby involving repetitive hand, wrist, and forearm motions, take steps to reduce the frequency or intensity of these movements. If possible, take breaks every 20 minutes or so to give your muscles a rest. When you are not working or doing your hobby, try to avoid activities that stress the affected area, such as typing on a laptop keyboard or using a manual can opener. In cases where it is impossible to avoid repetitive motions, try to use good form and technique to minimize the stress on your body.
2. Maintain a Good Posture
Poor posture can contribute to CTS because it puts extra pressure on the median nerve. When you sit, stand or sleep, ensure that your spine is in alignment and that you are not putting undue stress on your wrists or hands. Use a supportive chair when sitting, and avoid sleeping on your stomach. It is also essential to watch your weight. Being overweight puts extra pressure on the wrist and hand, leading to CTS. If you are overweight, try to lose weight gradually through diet and exercise. Even a small amount of weight loss can help reduce the pressure on the median nerve and lower your risk of developing CTS.
3. Exercise Regularly
Exercise is vital for overall health but can also help reduce your risk of developing CTS. Exercise helps strengthen the muscles and tendons around the wrist and hand, which can help to take some of the pressure off the median nerve. Exercise also helps to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain. When starting an exercise program, warm up and cool down properly to avoid injury. Stretching and massage can also help to reduce the risk of developing CTS. Stretching helps loosen the muscles and tendons around the wrist and hand, reducing the pressure on the median nerve. Massage helps to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can also help to reduce pain and inflammation. When stretching or massaging, be sure to use gentle movements and avoid any pain or discomfort.
Overall, there are several things you can do to lower your risk of developing CTS. If you are at risk for the condition, take steps to reduce the amount of stress on your median nerve. Exercise regularly and maintain good posture to help reduce the pressure on the nerve. If you are already experiencing symptoms of CTS, talk to your doctor about treatment options.