How to Reverse the Effects of Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a nerve disorder that is caused by repetitive hand or wrist movements or injuries. Tendons and ligaments in the wrist stretch and swell, causing pressure on nerves that extend into the hands and fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome affects both men and women, but is most commonly found in women between the ages of 30 and 60. While symptoms may improve with treatment, it is best to take a preventative approach that may help to reduce and even reverse the effects of this painful condition. Learning how to reverse the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome is the goal of many individuals afflicted with the condition.

Things You'll Need

• Hot or cold compresses
• Anti-inflammatory medications

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Instructions

• 1

  Take breaks from typing, keyboarding and other tasks that require repetitive hand and finger movements at least once an hour to help reduce tingling or numbness in the fingers and wrists caused by stress and strain on the wrist joint.

• 2

  Pay attention to symptoms such as early morning stiffness or tingling in the fingers and wrist at night. To help alleviate stiffness, complete wrist rotation exercises that keep the wrist joint loose and fluid. For those suffering from arthritis or other conditions that affect the joints, warm or cold compresses placed on the affected area often help to reduce pain and swelling.

• 3

  Stretch fingers and wrists frequently to help reverse effects of carpal tunnel syndrome. Such stretching can be performed anywhere and involve merely spreading the fingers apart or clenching the hand into a fist several times throughout the day.

• 4

  Watch how you're gripping your computer mouse. Many individuals grip their mouse too tightly. To help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, use the entire arm to move the mouse, and not just the wrist or fingers.

• 5

  Take a look at your jewelry or watch wearing habits. Do you wear tight watches or a lot of jewelry that may hamper circulation in your wrist? Avoid wearing tight cuffs, jewelry and watches to help prevent adequate blood flow and constricted nerves that cause tingling and numbness.