THE TOP 3 WAYS TO AVOID CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a very common occurrence, especially in those that are at a computer all day. The carpal tunnel is in your wrist and made up of bones of the hand and ligaments that form the ceiling of the tunnel. With typing, pressure is frequently put on the wrists and base of the palm. In addition, the frequent use of the tendons that glide through this area, during typing can cause the tendons to become irritated and swollen decreasing the space in the tunnel. Your median nerve, which supplies sensation and muscle control to your thumb and first two fingers can become compressed. This is why with CTS, many people first experience tingling or numbness in the thumb and first two fingers. While this can be a sign of nerve compression, the good news is that this can be prevented and even reversed quite quickly. 2. Improve your posture at work - If you slouch at the keyboard, this puts the neck in a bad position and can put more pressure on your wrists, decreasing blood flow to your hands. Sit tall and have your keyboard slightly lower than the level of your elbow. 3. Stretch your chest and shoulders - Improving your shoulder and chest mobility increases the circulation in your hands. The better your circulation, the less inflammation can build up in the hand and wrist.
Seeing a physical therapist right away is essential, but here are some tips you can do in the meantime: 1. Stretch your wrists and hands - Stand up and grab the tips of your fingers with the other hand. With your arm outstretched, gently stretch your fingers back until you feel a gentle pulling in your hand and wrist. Hold this for 15-30 seconds and repeat on both sides for 3 times. Do this frequently throughout the day.
CTS is a condition that you can prevent with these tips. However, if you start to notice the tingling, numbness or weakness in your hand, see a physical therapist right away. It is much better to catch CTS early, than after nerve damage has occurred. If you feel that you might be experiencing CTS or know someone with these symptoms, call us today to speak with one of our specialists. “We highly recommend PT Institute of Illinois. Mike is an excellent PT and very knowledgeable in back rehab. He was awesome at getting my daughter back to the activities she loves. My daughter was very comfortable receiving treatments here and thrilled to be able to get back to cheerleading. The office staff is also very friendly and professional. Appointments were very easy to make and accommodating to our schedule. Thanks Mike! - C.G. & R.G. “Thanks Mike!”
COME BACK IN FOR A CONSULTATION! Whether you want to come in for a check-up, suffered a recent injury or you want to improve your health, you can choose the physical therapy practice you want! Come back to PTII for a consultation today!
See our physical therapists for: • Recent injury • Nagging aches and pains • Back and neck pain • Joint pain and movement problems • Walking or balance difficulties
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