For most people today, typing is a part of their daily routine. This is true whether they’re working, studying or just shopping online. And many people tend to forget that using a keyboard for an extended period of time can lead to long-term nerve damage. Because of this, carpal tunnel syndrome in New Orleans is quite common.
This is particularly true for people whose job includes computer usage. Symptoms of this condition typically start gradually and can include:
Burning and pain that moves up the arm;
Tingling, pain and/or numbness in the thumb and first three fingers;
Weakness in the muscles of the hand;
Wrist pain at night that disrupts sleep.
Who Is at Risk for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in New Orleans?
There several factors that make some people more susceptible than others.
Sex: It’s more common in women than men.
Heredity: A trait of the condition can run in families.
Hand usage: Those who work with their hands often have increased risk.
Age: People who are older experience it more often.
Health conditions: Some illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes can also increase the risk.
Can Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in New Orleans Be Prevented?
Here are several things you can try to prevent it from developing.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Don’t smoke.
- Keep your weight down.
- Don’t sleep in positions that cause your wrists to curl or bend.
- Keep your hands warm to prevent stiffness.
- Take quick, frequent breaks to rest your hands.
- Stretch your fingers, wrists, and hands frequently.
- Loosen your grip and force when you’re working with your hands.
- Improve your posture at your workstation.
Already Experiencing Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in New Orleans?
Here are things you can do to reduce discomfort or pain.
- Apply cold packs to the area to reduce pain and swelling.
- Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Wear a wrist splint at night.
If you try these methods (or others) and they aren’t working to relieve your pain and discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact your orthopedic surgeon. Therapy or cortisone injections may help. Surgery is used in some cases, but the decision to have it depends on the severity of the symptoms. Recovery from this type of surgery can be lengthy.
If you think you may have carpal tunnel syndrome in New Orleans, don’t wait to get a diagnosis – when it comes to nerve damage, there is a point of no return. So contact us today to schedule a consultation.