How to Reduce Hand Wrist Pain
Hand wrist pain is a problem that many suffer from on a daily basis. Sometimes it lasts only a few days and for others the pain is chronic. There are several factors that need to be examined to find the root cause. Once the cause is established then a solution can be found.
Instructions
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Understand that hand wrist pain is literally connected, so it's stands to reason one affects the other. Muscles, tendons, nerves and blood vessels all go through the wrist to the hand. The pain usually stems from an injury, repetitive motion or over use and in some cases arthritis.
Locate the source of pain. Once you know how and why the pain exists you can take steps to ease the pain. For example, if there is swelling from an injury elevate the hand and ice the swollen area.
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Use a night splint or brace. While sleeping the hand and wrist can be placed in very awkward positions and we don't feel it because we're sleeping. This can create pain and discomfort for days or possibly even weeks.
Sleep on your back. It's sleeping on the side that places the hand in strange curled up positions. Sleeping on your side also hinders circulation to the hand by keeping pressure on the side you're sleeping on.
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Avoid using the hand or use it less. If you know that repetitive motion or over use is creating hand wrist pain then use the other hand or alternate back and forth. For instance a carpenter may have pain in his right hand from hammering, so he should switch hands and use the left to give the right a rest.
Massage and stretch. Massage increases circulation and stretching restores range of motion. Whatever the problem may be this will reduce hand wrist pain and promote healing. There can be discomfort at times as with any type of treatment, but this is normal and dissipates in time.
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Take frequent breaks. Whether it's a job or hobby that's causing hand and wrist pain you need to take breaks. This is probably why you have the pain in the first place. If you work on a computer use a gel wrist rest or other type of support that brings relief.
Try pain relief cream. There are many types of topical pain relievers on the market. They're used to treat all sorts of aches, strains, sprains and stiffness. However, use sparingly as they can irritate the skin if over used. Lastly, if you know you have sensitive skin there are skin sensitive products available.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Flickr.com
