You are busy typing away on your laptop when you feel a tingling sensation in your hands and wrist. Then a sharp pain shoots through your wrist and up your arm. It could be a passing sensation, but if it happens often, the likely culprit is carpal tunnel syndrome, a painful condition caused by a compressed nerve in the wrist. Check out these tips on ways to ease the pain if you are diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome.
- If you are doing a particular activity and notice the pain increasing, stop the activity and rest your fingers, hand and wrist. Allow time to recover before you resume the activity.
- Apply Milkweed Balm to your fingers, hand, wrist and arm. Massage the balm at least two times a day. The natural oils in the milkweed plant have anti-inflammatory properties that may help promote muscle health.
- Consider immobilizing your wrist at night by wearing a wrist splint. If your wrist is in a neutral position, it will relieve pressure on your median nerve.
- Exercise your wrist to stretch and strengthen it. Shake out your hands like they are wet for a minute every so often. Also, try holding one arm out straight with your palm facing the floor. Apply pressure at the wrist as far as you’re able. Repeat throughout the day.
- Join a yoga class. Studies show that yoga can be very effective at easing wrist pain. Yoga is designed to strengthen and stretch the wrists.
- Consider alternative therapies. Some patients find relief through acupuncture, chiropractic care and vitamin supplements. Consult with your doctor before you start an alternative plan.
You don’t have to be a prisoner to your pain. Try some of these suggestions to improve your daily living.