Wrist care: Preventing carpal tunnel syndrome
Why is monitoring body mechanics important?
When the wrists are bent during activities such as typing or needlework, the carpal tunnel narrows and can press on the median nerve. This is especially likely when the tunnel is already narrowed by swelling.
Common movements, positions, or conditions that put pressure on the median nerve include:
- Repetitive movement of the fingers or wrist.
- Prolonged or repeated bending of the wrist, particularly using the hand to support weight or apply pressure.
- Prolonged vibrating of the hand, as when using a power tool.
- Swelling in the wrist area. This can be from carpal tunnel syndrome inflammation, which perpetuates the median nerve effects, or from fluid retention. Carpal tunnel syndrome is common during later pregnancy, when women tend to retain fluid.
Monitoring your body mechanics is key in preventing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Test Your Knowledge
Even if you don't use tools such as vibrating equipment or a keyboard very much, it's smart to be careful about your body mechanics.
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How can I prevent carpal tunnel syndrome?
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| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH | Last Updated: October 29, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Patrick J. McMahon, MD - Orthopedics David Pichora, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery | |
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