Tingling hand and wrist pain can be tough to handle, especially if you are into sports or athletics. If you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, surgery might seem to be the only viable option, but that is not true. With some simple hacks, you will be able to deal with the issue and avoid or postpone the surgery. This article will discuss five helpful hacks that would help you deal with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Before knowing the hacks, it is essential to know a bit about CTS. The pain might start slowly and gradually, and it can affect one or both of your arms. You might feel numbness in your hand, especially in your index finger and thumb areas. Your wrists might feel weak too. Sports injury clinic Worthing suggests that you can ease out the symptoms of CTS with some easy lifestyle changes.
Breaks
If you are into doing repetitive tasks daily, you should take a break and give your wrist some rest. For example, if you are into typing, or playing the guitar, set a timer of 15 minutes before you sit down to do the task. As it goes off, take a break and wiggle your hand/fingers. You can also do some hand and wrist stretching exercises to improve the blood flow of those areas and reduce stress.
Hand Elevation
Hand elevation is a great exercise, especially while you are sleeping. It helps to reduce a wide range of issues like inflammation. Lay on your back and prop your wrist on your pillows. You can also keep your arm straight, which is a helpful exercise. You can try wrapping a crepe bandage or towel on your elbows for added support.
Ergonomic Workstation
Even though repetitive tasks might not give rise to CTS, they can, of course, trigger the situation. Like working with a bad back posture throughout the day would create back pain, the same is true for your wrist. Thus, setting up an ergonomic workstation is in the best interest of your health. It will help to keep your wrist straight and help relieve the condition. You can also put wrist rests in front of your mouse or keyboard.
Ice Therapy
To reduce the effects of CTS and get quick relief, you should always go for ice therapy. Take ice cubes in a thick cloth or towel, and cold compress the affected area. Continue doing this for at least 15 to 20 minutes to get some relief.
Wrist Exercises
Wrist exercises can give you some relief from the symptoms of CTS. Sports injury clinic Worthing suggests you clench your fist and release the fingers gradually to show your palm. Repeat this exercise at least 5 to 10 times.
These are the easiest hacks that you can follow whenever you feel pain or numbness due to CTS.