Carpal Tunnel Relief: 7 Remedies for Pain

Posted on 07/20/2022

Carpal tunnel syndrome causes tingling, pain, and numbness in your arms and hands that lasts for several months. The condition can result from using vibrating hand equipment. These include musical instruments and manual labor tools. They cause a pinched nerve in your wrist, making it hard to perform everyday activities.

The condition causes tingling and numbness in your index fingers and thumbs. The uncomfortable sensation then spreads to your wrists and arms. If you experience these sensations, you can ease them with medication and some lifestyle changes. Here are a few ideas you can use.

Take Breaks From Repetitive Tasks

Whether practicing your musical instrument or using a drill, take a break! 15 minutes is sufficient. Wiggle your fingers, stretch your arms, and move your wrists. It will help improve blood flow and realign the nerves.

You can also alternate the hand you use between tasks if possible. It will help break the monotony. As your use tools and equipment, only use as much force as you need. Too much pressure may create tension in the wrist and aggravate your symptoms.

Wear a Wrist Brace

Some people bend their wrists when they sleep. It restricts blood flow to the arms and hands, causing inflammation. It may also result in a pinched nerve. Wearing a wrist brace will help relieve pressure on your median nerve and reduce the symptoms. You can wear it to bed and give it three or four weeks before symptoms improve.

Stay Warm

Keep your hands warm. It will help you deal with the stiffness and pain. You can wear fingerless gloves when going outdoors or keep hand warmers nearby. Also, you can give your hands and arms some warm water therapy when you get back in the house.

Ensure the water is between 92 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (33 to 37 degrees Celsius). Gently move and flex your hands and wrists in the water. Do it three or four times a day to relieve your symptoms.

Ergonomic Changes

You may have to make some ergonomic changes to your work environment. These changes may include changes to the height of your chair and the position of your keyboard. They will relieve symptoms and pain by changing your hand and wrist positions as you type. Ergonomic changes will take pressure off the median nerve, giving you temporary relief.

Massages

Whenever possible, massage your palms, wrists, and the back of your hands. You can also do quick wrist exercises wherever you are. Make a fist, and then slowly straighten your fingers one by one. You can repeat this exercise five to ten times a day.

Cortisone Shots

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs. They reduce inflammation of the tendons around the median nerve, reducing irritation. They bring relief from the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Pain Relievers

You can also use over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These include ibuprofen and aspirin. The medication reduces inflammation and brings relief from pain. However, remember to consult your doctor before taking any medication.

To learn more about carpal tunnel relief, call East Bay Hand and Upper Extremity at call (510) 904-1100 to reach our office in Oakland, California.