Preventing Carpal Tunnel and Repetitive Stress
Ergonomic Products and Preventive Measures for Relief of RSI
Oct 9, 2009
Every occupation has its own set of aches and pains. True, work requiring heavy computer use may not be not as dangerous as being a cop or fireman. But writing and other occupations do increase the risk of carpal tunnel and RSI.
Carpal Tunnel and RSI
The most commonly known repetitive stress injury is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Statistics from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health show that CTS affects over eight million people in the United States.
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway located at the base of the wrist. A sensitive nerve, called the median nerve, runs through this passage. When the carpal tunnel becomes inflamed, the nerve becomes pinched, causing symptoms such as numbness and severe pain.
Treatments of carpal tunnel syndrome include the use of a special wrist brace to relieve pressure, and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Some serious cases may require surgery.
Repetitive Stress Injury
Repetitive stress injury is not restricted to the hands and wrist. Any kind of repetitive movement may bring about symptoms in other parts of the body. Other spots prone to RSI for heavy computer users are the neck and shoulders and back. The fingers and thumb also can suffer from repetitive motions caused by excessive use of a mouse or other pointing device.
Ergonomic Products
Products specifically designed to prevent or relieve RSI can help reduce the risk of stress. Ergonomic keyboards are designed to align the hands and fingers in a more natural position when typing. Many ergonomic keyboards are split. Others are curved so that the fingers drop down over the keyboard in a position that puts less strain on the wrists.
Computer mice and other pointing devices may also cause problems. The average computer user may click a mouse up to 5,000 times a day. That’s over a million clicks a years. That is why it is essential to purchase a mouse or trackball or other pointing device that is comfortable and does not exert excessive pressure on the wrist or index finger. Touch pointing devices such as the Wacom tablet are also recommended to relieve discomfort.
Below are several common symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. These symptoms should not be ignored and may require medical treatment.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
- numbness and tingling of the hands
- lack of feeling in the thumb and index finger
- A tingling sensation in the fingers
- difficulty making a fist
- shooting pains in the wrist or forearm
- pain that worsens at night, or after repetitive use of the hands and fingers
- pain after holding your wrist in a bent position for more than one minute
Good news-- Serious injury caused by carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive stress can often be prevented. Here are some helpful suggestions:
Tips to Prevent Carpal Tunnel and RSI
- take frequent breaks
- don't bend your wrist all the way down when you type
- keep your keyboard at elbow height or slightly lower
- use good posture
Read more:
Fried, Scott, M.D. The Carpal Tunnel Helpbook: Self-Healing Alternatives for Carpal Tunnel and other Repetitive Strain Injuries. MA: Da Capo Press, 2001. ISBN 10-0738204552
Butler, Sharon J. Conquering Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other Repetitive Strain Injuries. CA: New Harbinger Publications, 1996. ISBN 10-1572240393
Click these links for:
Ergonomic Keyboard and Mice Reviews
Carpal Tunnel Prevention Exercises
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