How to Diagnose Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Having a career in today's modern world means having to sit at the computer a lot. Extended amounts of time in front of the keyboard put you at risk for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the nerves in the arm are pressed against the wrist and can also occur when your wrist has been broken. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include thumb, wrist, finger and palm pain. Carpal tunnel syndrome is most common among women, although the reason is unknown. Exercises and arm braces are helpful to control carpal tunnel syndrome, but most people affected with it will experience symptoms for the rest of their lives.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Doctor
• Arm braces
• Ergonomic keyboard

1. Consider your hobbies and profession. Carpal tunnel syndrome is most likely caused as a result of extensive wrist or hand movement. If you are a frequent typer, video game player or musician, you may have carpal tunnel syndrome from excessive use of your hands.

2. Check your symptoms. The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome are wrist pain, finger and knuckle pain, and pain in the palms of your hands. If you have pain in your elbow or upper arm, you probably do not have carpal tunnel syndrome, but possibly some other type of nerve damage.

3. See a doctor to determine if you have carpal tunnel syndrome. Your doctor will ask where you have hand or wrist pain, and slowly rotate your wrist. Depending on how much pain you feel while your wrist is being rotated, your doctor will determine if you have carpal tunnel syndrome. He may prescribe you pain medication if your carpal tunnel syndrome is severe.

4. Consider getting wrist braces. Regardless of whether you have been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, you may benefit from wrist braces if you are experiencing wrist or hand pain. You can purchase wrist braces at most drugstores or pharmacies. Wear them at night or when you are using your hands during extended periods of time.

5. Purchase an ergonomic keyboard if you use a computer at work or home. Any extra stress on your wrists can be relieved by using an ergonomic keyboard. Most cases of carpal tunnel syndrome are caused by extended computer use, so exercise caution when using a computer keyboard.

Tips & Warnings

• Always follow your doctor's recommendations.
• See a doctor if you are experiencing wrist pain or think you may have carpal tunnel syndrome.

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