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If your carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by repetitive strain, then lifestyle has everything to do with your symptoms, and you’ll need to make some changes.
General Guidelines
A simple change in how your wrists are positioned during sleep may solve early symptoms. Sleep with your wrists cocked upward instead of bent downward to minimize pressure in the carpal tunnel.
Check the Ergonomics of Your Workplace
The more comfortable your workplace, and the closer your work activity conforms to the way your body works, the less chance of discomfort or reduced performance.
Check the Tools You Use at Work
Warm Up Before and During Work
According to a report published by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a simple warm-up routine may greatly reduce the incidence of carpal tunnel syndrome. This routine, combined with medication and rest, may prove to be better at treating symptoms than simple rest and medication.
The warm-up routine is as follows:
Both caffeine and tobacco reduce blood flow to your hands. Nerve tissue is the most sensitive to reduced blood flow. Avoid caffeine and tobacco so that you don’t decrease blood flow to these areas any further.
When to Contact Your Doctor
References:
American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://www.aafp.org/online/en/home.html .
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research website. Available at: http://www.mayo.edu/ .
National Institutes of Health website. Available at: http://www.nih.gov/ .
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/ .
Last reviewed August 2008 by Robert Leach, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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