Preventative Measures to Avoid Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Even if you consider yourself to be the world's fastest typist, you should take the necessary precautions to avoid getting carpal tunnel syndrome, which is by definition an inflammation of the ligament that causes numbness in your fingers, hands or wrists. Follow these steps to keep the ligaments in your hands functioning efficiently and without issues.

In order to prevent such symptoms you must always keep a neutral wrist position, take frequent breaks when typing or using a mouse, perform stretching exercises, buy a wrist splint to wear when using your computer and ultimately if you are already feeling discomfort get a medical evaluation.

Keeping a neutral position on the wrist is important to avoid ligament discomfort when using a computer or any other workstation. Also, adjusting the height of your chair to work comfortably is good if necessary, this is mostly so the forearms are at the same level with your keyboard. Keep your hands and wrists in a straight line with your forearms and avoid awkward positions

One common mistake is when people flex their wrists while typing, don't do this if you are typing because it is promoting the appearance of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Taking small breaks every 15 to 20 minutes just to rest your fingers and wrists is imperative, mostly if you are performing a task that requires you to execute repetitive wrist and hand movements.

It is highly recommended to exercise your fingers and wrists every half an hour to an hour. The best way to perform this exercise is by extending and stretching both hands as if you were pushing a wall with your hands flat against it, hold this position for five to ten seconds and repeat the same exercise several times.

You can also tighten your fist with both hands, then bend your wrists downward and again hold this position for five to ten seconds. Repeat this exercise several times as well.

Wearing a wrist splint is very helpful because it keeps your wrist in a neutral position while you work, without constantly having to make a mental note to keep a neutral position. If you are experiencing discomfort you can wear one while you sleep to help maintain an ideal wrist position.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is known to affect middle-aged women the most, so if you feel pain, tingling or numbness you should visit your doctor to get an evaluation.