I've got to hand it to you...

I've wanted to do a blog post for a while on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. With my hands a little stressed from finishing my latest novel, TAMING TORI (book #3 in my Texas Boys Falling Fast series), I thought now would be a good time.

 (Hand model, Kerri Unverferth-Romes)

We use our hands all day, every day. Sometimes the things we do are repetitive, which puts us at greater risk for CTS. 

You can reduce your risk by taking a few simple steps.

1. Exercise keeps our muscles strong.

2. Stretching keeps our muscles flexible.

3. Arrange your work space to be more ergonomic.

4. Proper body mechanics. Don't slouch. If your shoulders roll forward you can compress nerves in your neck which can affect your arms, wrists, and hands.

5. Take frequent breaks. 

6. Relax your grip. 

7. Slowly roll your wrist 10 times in each direction. (You might feel a slight popping) This will help put mobility and circulation back in your wrist.

8. Use one hand to gently pull your fingers back on the other hand - not to the point they hurt.

9. Press your hand down to a 90 degree angle - again, not to the point it hurts.

10.) If you use a keyboard keep it at elbow height or slightly lower.

(A more aged hand, belonging to yes...me)

Signs of possible carpal tunnel syndrome -- tingling, numbness, weakness or pain in the fingers, thumb, or hand and occasionally spreading up the arm. These symptoms occur where there is pressure on the median nerve. 

Sometimes the symptoms are temporary. If they linger, see your doctor to prevent permanent damage.

Be kind to your hands and wrists by giving them a break from time to time! 



** disclaimer -- I'm in no way associated with the medical community. The information in this post are tidbits I've collected either through reading or conversations. ** 

Coming soon!