Q: I am going back to work and fear the tightness in my wrists will start again. Am I getting carpal tunnel? What can I do about it?
A: Computer users are warned that their repetitive typing movements can cause a condition called carpal tunnel, which can be very painful. If you spend significant time on the computer, take a few moments before you start work to do a few warm-up exercises. Repeat the following ten times.
Extend and stretch both wrists and fingers outward in front of you as if they are in a handstand position. Hold for a count of ten and relax your arms. With your arms still extended outward, make a fist with both hands and lower your wrists downward for another ten seconds and relax.
Stretch your arms out to your sides with the palms facing down. Extend your hands and fingers outward keeping your arms straight. Rotate your shoulders back and turn your hands so the palms are facing up. Shrug your shoulder up, back, then down. Look up and hold.
During the day, it will never hurt to repeat these exercises. Also take frequent short breaks to stretch or walk around your desk before sitting back down. If you feel a problem developing in your arms, contact your Doctor of Chiropractor immediately, before the injury has a chance to become worse. Chiropractors can help alleviate the symptoms and provide prevention advice for future computer use.
If you would like more information, health tips and a newsletter from Advantage Health & Wellness PLLC, join our mailing list.
