It is no surprise considering how much people work on their computers every day. The carpal tunnel is the passageway in the wrist through which various tendons and nerves pass through. When overused, this area can become inflamed causing the nerves to become compressed. Once the nerves are compressed, it can lead to numbness and pain in the first four fingers thus making day to day activities much more difficult.
For a more severe case of carpal tunnel syndrome, you may need surgery. But if you catch it early enough, simpler options like a wrist brace and pain relievers might do the trick.
Early treatment is key with carpal tunnel syndrome. Make an appointment if you have these common symptoms:
Burning, numbness, tingling, or pain in your fingers and thumb -- symptoms that may be worse after you’ve been asleep
Dropping things more often than usual
Weakness in your hand
Most people bend their wrists when they sleep. That puts pressure on the median nerve. A brace can help because it keeps your wrist in a straight, neutral position. Using a wrist brace at night do more to relieve carpal tunnel symptoms than using no treatment at all.
It is helpful to wear a brace during the day, especially during activities that trigger flare-ups. Repeated motions or extra strain on your wrist can make your symptoms worse. If your job allows for it, try wearing a brace at work.
