How to Reduce the Chances of Getting Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – NJ Chiro Explains

Some jobs require a lot of gripping and handling objects, or maybe a lot of typing at a computer. You’ve heard that at these jobs, carpal tunnel syndrome or CTS is a problem. You really want a job in one of these fields, but you are worried about CTS. How can you prevent this? NJ Springfield Chiropractic is going to tell you how.

There are no guarantees that CTS won’t occur by following these steps, but they can possibly make a huge difference and help you to prevent worsening the condition.

1. LIGHTEN YOUR GRIP: Try to use less force or a lighter grip when handling tolls or objects. If you find yourself stuck in your same habits, try upgrading to higher quality tools that help you grip less, or a nicer keyboard. You can even use this tip in your everyday life. While playing sports, gardening, and even cutting fruits and vegetables in the kitchen, try to lighten up your grip.

2. TAKE BREAKS: Every 15-20 minutes, take a break to stretch out your hands/wrists to allow for recovery.

3. STRETCHING: These stretches will help you find relief: Put your palm on a flat surface and point your fingers down. Stretch your wrist as far back as it can go until you feel a pulling sensation in your arm muscles. Hold this for 10 seconds and repeat it on the other side. 2: Make a fist for three seconds, straighten out your knuckle joints, then open your hands and fan your fingers out as far as possible. Hold this for 10 seconds and repeat on the other side.

4. KEEPING THE WRISTS NEUTRAL: When able to, try keeping the writs straight and avoid bending them. This can be done when driving, sleeping, etc. You can also try using a wrist splint at night if you have trouble doing this.

5. CHANGING YOUR ROUTINE: While doling a risky task, instead of staying until you’re done, try to switch to something that doesn’t require the same amount of gripping and handling, or switch hands back and forth.

6. CHECKING YOUR POSTURE: Keep your chin tucked in, your head back, and sit up straight and tall. Avoid the head leaning forward. At a desk, make sure you are not slouching over.

7. AVOID COLD HANDS: by wearing gloves, having a small space heater, or rubbing your hands together, you can avoid your hands and fingers from freezing and tensing up.

8. ROTATE TASKS: To avoid doing the same movements over and over, try changing job tasks with your co workers and boss. This can help if you are doing assembly line work.

9. SEEK HELP SOONER THAN LATER: Studies have proved that waiting and not visiting a chiropractor for CTS can reduce the success of treatment. NJ Springfield Chiropractic can help you come up with a treatment plan that involves exercises and manipulation to help reduce the pain of CTS. If you are in pain and cannot find relief, don’t hesitate to contact us at NJ Springfield Chiropractic. We are here to help.