You may think that grasping objects using your fingers is a usual practice. However, if you have ever experienced numbness and tingling in your wrist, you can attest that a proper functioning wrist is not for granted. In most cases, tingling in your wrist usually disappears on its own, so it may not bother you. Nevertheless, when you experience persistent pain and numbness in your fingers, you should seek the appropriate treatment since you could suffer from Westfield carpal tunnel. Here are self-care tips to help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Take breaks from the repetitive tasks

Individuals engaging in activities involving repetitive motion in their arms are at risk of developing carpal tunnel. When you perform actions such as driving for an extended period, the tendons in your hands can be subject to aggravation. Therefore, if you engage in such activities, you should always take frequent breaks. You can also change the usual hand motions when performing these activities.

Stretch

Just like any other muscle in the body, your hand muscles need strengthening exercises. Engage in seemingly simple activities such as flexing and rotating your wrists to make your hand less tense. Also, you should participate in the therapeutic practices that your health care provider recommends. Through stretching, you eliminate the excess pressure exerted on the median nerves reducing the chances of getting CTS.

Maintain the appropriate posture

Many people operating computers for a long time have complained of numbness in their wrists. A slouching posture that they adopt is the one that ignites the compression of the nerves along the neck, eventually affecting their arms and fingers. Therefore, when operating your computer, ensure that your shoulders are upright to avoid nerve strain. Invest in the ergonomic seats that help you to maintain appropriate wrist positions.

Adjust to the softer touch

Sometimes you may use excessive force while performing the daily task such as holding items without bearing in mind the impacts. Using excessive force while grasping objects often causes strain in the nerves in your arms, increasing the likelihood of CTS. Therefore, you should be mindful of the forces you use while executing normal activities with your hands.

Wear braces

Sometimes if you cannot avoid tasks involving repetitive motion in your hands, it is vital to use the appropriate gears. Use the wrist splints and braces to keep your wrist in the neutral position, ensuring it is healthy. Always consult your doctor before investing in specific braces since some only point you in a particular direction.

Keep warm

It is worth noting that the cold environment can worsen the CTS symptoms. You will often feel a sharp pain and stiffness when your hands have more coldness. Therefore, you should ensure that your hands are warm to combat the symptoms of carpal tunnel. You can use warm gloves to keep your wrist and fingers warm.

A significant proportion of the population has been experiencing numbness and tingling in their wrists. This condition may feel normal at first, but with time it becomes a concern due to the persistence of the symptoms. Therefore, when you have tingling, seek the immediate remedy since it could be a red flag of carpal tunnel. At Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine, a team of experienced professionals diagnose the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and offer appropriate treatment. Book an appointment and visit the office to mark the end of discomfort.