Description...

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition in which pressure builds up on the median nerve of the wrist, which delivers sensation and movement to the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to tingling, numbness, weakness or muscle damage in the hand and fingers.

Carpal tunnel syndrome leads to the narrowing of the carpal tunnel, which compresses the median nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition, caused by many factors. Health issues such as obesity, arthritis, gout and lupus can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome; it can also be caused by lifestyle or work conditions that lead to repetitive wrist and hand movements.

Treatment...

• Wear an iGO Keo Brace, which MRI's demonstrate can open the carpal tunnel by up to 38%, often significantly reducing pain almost immediately.

• While sleeping, wear an iGO Night Wrist Support.

• Apply ice to the wrist in a 20-30 minutes on/20-30 minutes off cycle.

• Avoid sleeping with your body weight against your wrists.

• Use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin to help reduce swelling and relieve pain.

• Make changes in your work environment to reduce or eliminate repetitive wrist or hand movements.

 

At-Home Exercises...

Chest Press:

Hold your arms out in front of your chest and press your palms together. Press inward on both arms for five seconds, then relax for five seconds. Perform five repetitions. As you build strength, increase to ten repetitions.

Wrist Stretch:

Extend your right arm in front of you with the palm facing the ceiling. Bend the wrist so your hand points toward the floor. With the other hand, gently bend the right wrist farther until you feel a stretch. Hold for 15-30 seconds. Repeat with left hand. Repeat two to four times with each hand.