Logan Voss
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common workplace-related injuries. Millions of people experience pain in their wrists and hands due to repetitive motions associated with their jobs.
But the good news is that there are simple strategies you can use to reduce your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Let’s look at some of the ways you can prevent carpal tunnel syndrome at work.
Take Regular Breaks
The best way to reduce repetitive motion and strain on your wrists and hands is to take regular breaks from your work. Make sure you get up and move around every 30 minutes or so. You don’t have to take long breaks. Just a few minutes away from your computer or other workstation will do wonders for reducing strain on your hands and wrists.
Stretch Your Hands and Wrists
Stretching regularly throughout the day will help reduce tension in your hands and wrists, which can reduce the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. Try these simple stretches:
- Interlock your fingers and gently pull them away from each other while stretching out your arms in front of you. Hold this position for 10 seconds before releasing.
- Extend one arm in front of you, palm facing up, then use the other hand to bend it back toward you until you feel a gentle stretch in the wrist area. Hold for 10 seconds before switching arms and repeating on the other side.
- Clench both fists tightly for 5 seconds, then release and relax for 10 seconds before repeating three more times.
- Extend both arms straight out in front of you with palms facing down, then bend both wrists upward until they form an upside-down “V” shape. Hold for 10 seconds before releasing.
Use Proper Posture and Equipment
Good posture is essential for preventing carpal tunnel syndrome while working at a desk or computer station. Make sure that your elbows bend at 90 degrees or more when typing or using a mouse, as this will help reduce strain in your wrists and shoulders over time.
Additionally, invest in adjustable desks and chairs that allow you to switch between sitting and standing while working if possible. This will help further reduce strain on your body over time by giving you multiple ergonomic options throughout the day.
If you work on a construction site, anti-vibration gloves provide protection from the strain of power tools. You should wear them at all times when operating these tools.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is an all-too-common injury among workers who spend most of their days typing or using their hands for repetitive motions. But there are steps we can all take to prevent it.
Taking regular breaks from work, stretching regularly, and using proper posture and equipment are all great ways to keep carpal tunnel syndrome at bay while working hard every day. So make sure not to forget these tips as you go about your daily routine!
