Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the most common nerve disorder and affects nearly 3% of the population. Cases are also high in East Brunswick, New Jersey. The condition causes numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in hand by compressing a major nerve (the median nerve) as it travels through a narrow passageway in your wrist. This can also lead to an increase in carpal tunnel pain at night. You can do several things to prevent or treat carpal tunnel syndrome. East Brunswick carpal tunnel specialists can be resourceful in your proactive ways to be safe from the condition.
- Stretch Often
One of the best things to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome is to stretch your hands, wrists, and fingers frequently throughout the day. Stretching helps increase flexibility and blood flow to the area, reducing inflammation and pain.
Several exercises can help to relieve carpal tunnel pain. One of the most effective is a stretch known as the “Dangle Stretch.” To do this stretch, hold your arm out straight in front of you and slowly lower it down until your hand is hanging loosely below your waist. Hold for 10-15 seconds and then repeat.
- Wear a Splint
If you have to perform repetitive motions with your hands (such as typing or using tools), wear a splint to help keep your wrist in a neutral position. This will take some pressure off the median nerve and help prevent symptoms from developing.
Another thing you can do to prevent or treat carpal tunnel syndrome is wearing a wrist brace. A wrist brace can help you keep your wrist straight as you sleep or perform repetitive tasks, taking some pressure off the median nerve.
- Avoid Repetitive Motion
As much as possible, avoid activities that require you to perform repetitive motions with your hands. If you have to do these activities, take frequent breaks and stretch your hands and wrists.
Repetitive motions can cause the muscles to tighten up and pressure the nerves. This can lead to pain and discomfort and increase carpal tunnel pain at night.
- Change Your Diet
You may also be able to reduce inflammation and pain by changing your diet. Eating anti-inflammatory foods such as fish, fruits, and vegetables can help to reduce swelling and pain. You should also avoid foods high in sugar and fat, which can contribute to inflammation.
If you are overweight, losing weight can also help to reduce pressure on the median nerve and relieve symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Improve Your Posture
Poor posture can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome by putting unnecessary pressure on the median nerve. Make sure that you sit up straight and use ergonomic furniture to help reduce strain on your wrists and hands.
One of the best things to prevent poor posture when sitting is ergonomic furniture. This will help reduce the amount of strain on your wrists and hands. Ensure that your computer monitor is at eye level, your chair is comfortable, and your keyboard and mouse are positioned so that you don’t have to reach for them.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in hand. You can do several things to prevent or treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Stretch often, wear a splint or wrist brace, avoid repetitive motion, change your diet, and improve posture.