Q&A
How Do I Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Question:
My work involves long hours of typing and computer use everyday. What are the precautions I can take to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome or CTS occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed for long periods of time. Over time, this pressure can cause dull aches, sharp pains or weakness in the hands and a loss of feeling in some fingers.
While prolonged computer use has been widely associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, the theory has not been scientifically proven as yet. Nevertheless, do take these precautions while you're at work:
Try to position your workstation for minimum stress on your body. Adjust the screen so that it is 24 to 36 inches away from you, with the top of your monitor no higher than eye level. Arrange your keyboard and mouse directly in front and close to you.
Adopt the correct posture and wrist position when working: Lift your hand up while navigating the mouse, instead of resting your wrist on the tabletop. When typing on the keyboard, your wrists and hands should be straight and your forearms parallel to the floor. Avoid bending your wrists when typing.
Schedule a short break every 15 to 20 minutes to gently stretch and bend your wrists. And try to avoid additional leisure activities that involve more repetitive movements of the hands and wrists, such as knitting.
Copyright © ShoppingLifestyle.com
