Treatment Options for Moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome has unfortunately become a fixture in today's desk-bound workplaces, and even moderate cases can lead to discomfort, decreased productivity and serious wrist damage. Luckily, you can pursue many easy treatment options if you develop wrist pain while typing.

Features

• The carpal tunnel is just that--a tunnel. It is a space between the wrist bones that the median nerve runs through. When wrist tissue swells due to repetitive strain, the tunnel closes up and pinches the median nerve. That's carpal tunnel syndrome.

Effects

• When the median nerve is pinched closed, you will feel numbness, tingly feelings and generalized pain in your fingers. Moderate cases may only present symptoms in the morning after you sleep all night with your hands curled into fists.

Prevention

• The first step in treating moderate carpal tunnel syndrome is to change the habits the caused it. Elevate your computer screen and sit so your keyboard is parallel to your elbows. Your forearm should be parallel to the floor while you type and your posture should be erect.

Exercises

• Stretches, such as extending both arms and slowly alternating between open hands and fists, can address existing symptoms and prevent the syndrome from worsening.

Warning

• If your carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms aren't getting better with rest and stretching, consult a physician.