Dr Lauren Papa: Can You Truly Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) now affects countless individuals – especially those spending endless hours typing, clicking, and swiping. The fear of developing this debilitating condition is all too real, so you may ask: can carpal tunnel syndrome genuinely be prevented? Dr Lauren Papa will discuss the complexities of CTS, as well as some preventive measures that could help keep the dreaded syndrome at bay.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Causes and Risk Factors
Understanding the underlying causes and risk factors of CTS is highly instrumental in assessing its preventability. There are a number of notable factors that are believed to contribute to the development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
First of all, constant wrist movement, whether through typing or using power tools, can cause long-term stress on the carpal tunnel, leading to CTS. Women are more prone to CTS than men, possibly due to generally smaller carpal tunnels.
Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and obesity, can contribute to the risk of developing CTS. Also, some fluid retention during pregnancy can result in increased pressure in the carpal tunnel, causing temporary CTS. Finally, the risk increases as you age, with middle-aged and older adults being particularly susceptible.
Prevention Strategies For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
It may not be possible to avoid the risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome entirely. However, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing CTS. First of all, adjust your workstation to promote a neutral wrist position. For that, use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse, and maintain good posture while working.
Other than that, you must use tools that fit your hand comfortably and minimize vibration. Understand proper techniques that minimize repetitive strain on your wrists. Dr Lauren Papa Also, you must regularly pause your activities to relax and flex your fingers and hands, allowing your muscles to recover.
You must incorporate wrist-strengthening and stretching exercises into your daily routine to improve flexibility, strength, and circulation. Keep medical conditions such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis under control to reduce the risk of developing secondary issues like CTS. Lastly, stick to a balanced diet, engage in regular exercise, and maintain healthy body weight to prevent getting CTS.