How to Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome, a nerve disorder in the hand caused by repetitive work strain, affects more than 250,000 workers per year in the United States, according to The American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. If caught early, it can be reversed.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Cold Compresses
• Heating Pads
• Splint
• Wrist Braces
• Wrist Guards
• Wrist Pads

1. Stop performing normal everyday activities with the injured hand - such as holding a cup, unscrewing a lid or ringing a doorbell - for at least a week to allow wrist and hand to rest. This will take pressure off the affected nerve.
2. Set up your work space with adjustable screens, keyboards and work surfaces to eliminate extra strain on the wrists and hands. Position your keyboard so that it is at elbow level. Your forearms, wrists and hands should be in a straight line parallel to the floor as you type.
3. Use a wrist pad with your keyboard. A wrist pad is a cushioned support that rests under your wrists, runs the length of your keyboard and takes the stress off your wrists by raising them to the level of the keyboard.
4. Go on a short break every hour, being sure to stretch and walk. This will help to relax the affected nerve in your hands as well as the rest of your body.
5. Wear a wrist splint at night for one to two weeks. Remember, the splint will provide the best support only when the wrist is straight.
6. Hang your hands over the side of the bed at night, or shake and dangle them as the pain occurs.
7. Massage your hands and wrists to relieve pressure.
8. Alternate heat and cold treatments to relieve pain and inflammation.
9. Take anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen daily for the pain and swelling.

Tips & Warnings

• Early signs of carpal tunnel syndrome are a tingling or numbness in the hands, sharp pains shooting from the wrist up the arm, or a burning sensation in the fingers.
• Acupuncture and acupressure are alternative forms of nonsurgical treatment worth looking into if symptoms persist.
• Risk for carpal tunnel syndrome increases with conditions such as diabetes, pregnancy, obesity and menopause.
• See your doctor immediately for treatment if you believe you have carpal tunnel syndrome. It is easier to treat if caught early.