Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the hand and wrist. Thought to be caused by tissues in the carpal tunnel becoming inflamed or swollen, this condition can be painful. When tissues in the carpal tunnel are affected they press on the median nerve. As a result of this, a sufferer’s hand or wrist can feel swollen or numb.
Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If your carpal tunnel syndrome is not too painful you may be able to treat it yourself. There are relatively easy ways for you to treat your condition at home. Here’s how:
Have Massage Therapy
Muscle Release Massage Therapy can be ideal for carpal tunnel syndrome. Working to decrease the forearm’s tension, this type of therapy can also help to reduce swelling. The thought of someone touching your arm may not appeal to you if you’re in a lot of pain. However, a massage therapy professional will know exactly how to help. While they may not be able to cure your condition they can help. Sometimes a bit of pain relief can make a huge difference.
Wear a splint
Wearing a wrist splint is ideal as it can help to relieve the pressure on the median nerve. The best thing that you can do is to wear the splint at night as it can help to keep your wrist and hand stable. This means that you are less likely to hurt your wrist when you sleep.
Most people find that wearing a splint for at least 4 weeks is ideal. It tends to take around 4 weeks for carpal tunnel syndrome to begin to improve.
Take Painkillers
Over-the-counter painkillers can help to reduce pain and swelling. Just make sure that you take them exactly as instructed. Please note, that painkillers are unlikely to deal with the cause of the pain and discomfort. However, they can help this condition to feel less painful.
If you’re not getting very much pain relief from over-the-counter medication please speak to your doctor. They may prescribe you medication that is slightly stronger. If you continue to have little to no pain relief your doctor may ask you to have steroid injections as they can help.
Avoid Tasks That Make it Worse
One of the best things that you can do is to avoid any task that makes your carpal tunnel syndrome worse. It may not always be clear what has caused this condition. However, carpal tunnel syndrome is typically caused by activities that involve bending the wrist. In addition to this, gripping anything hard can bring on this condition. Additionally, playing an instrument or using tools that vibrate can make the condition worse. Try to avoid undertaking any of the above activities whenever you’re in pain.
If you’re not sure what is making your pain worse please speak to your doctor.
It is possible for you to live with carpal tunnel syndrome. Just make sure that you take any painkillers as instructed and speak with your doctor if you’re struggling.