CTS Prevention at Home and at Work

Certain repetitive hand activities may put you at higher risk for developing a variety of wrist problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome. By learning how to modify the way you use your hands, you may be able to reduce the risk. Whenever possible, keep the following pointers in mind at home and on the job, and be sure to follow your company's hand and wrist safety policies and procedures.

Keep your wrist in Neutral

Avoid using your wrist in a bent (flexed), extended, or twisted position for long periods of time. Instead, try to maintain a neutral (straight) wrist position.

Watch Your Grip

Gripping, grasping, or lifting with the thumb and index finger can put stress on your wrist. When practical, use the whole hand and all the fingers to grasp an object.

Minimize Repetition

Even simple, light tasks may eventually cause injury. If possible, avoid repetitive movements or holding an object in the same way for extended periods of time.

Rest Your Hands

Periodically give your hands a break by letting them rest briefly. Or you may be able to alternate easy and hard tasks, switch hands, or rotate work activities.

Reduce Speed and Force

Reducing the speed with which you do a forceful, repetitive movement gives your wrist time to recover from the effort. Using power tools helps reduce the force.

Conditioning Exercises

Certain exercises strengthen the hand and arm muscles. They may help by reducing the need to compensate for these weak muscles with a poor wrist position.