Preventing and healing* Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by Ellen Serber, illustrations by Daniel Will-Harris Carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive stress disorders are preventable. The best possible scenario is never to develop symptoms, to work intelligently and to respect your body's needs. But if trouble does begin it is extremely important to act immediately, before the symptoms become a big problem. Pain and burning are the #1 indicators that something is wrong. The discomfort and pain can be in your fingers, hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, shoulder, neck, upper back or lower back. It is much better to take these preventative steps while you are pain-free, instead of waiting for major dysfunction. And if you are experiencing symptoms, you should see a health care professional immediately. Checklist for Prevention: The most important thing to do is to get up from your desk and move around every 1/2 hour. Take your eyes off your computer screen and gaze into the far distance. Drink a glass of water. Some computers have alarm clock functions which can be set to remind you to get up. If you don't have such a function there are shareware programs you can download which will act as a timer (there are many to choose from, go to www.shareware.com | |
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