Do These Easy Exercises for Carpal Tunnel Prevention or Relief!

Working at a desk all day? How is that wrist feeling? According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), “Carpal Tunnel surgery is the second most common type of surgery, with well over 230,000 procedures performed annually. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is considered the "chief occupational hazard of the 90's" - disabling workers in epidemic proportions.”

It has traditionally been treated by utilizing wrist splints, anti-inflammatory drugs, injections, surgery, or by changing careers altogether. According to research, many of these options have provided less than satisfactory symptom relief. In addition to its potentially debilitating physical aspects, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome has a negative financial impact on both companies and employees, resulting from lost time from work, decreased production and increased medical expenses.

Yoga and relaxation techniques have been used to help alleviate musculoskeletal symptoms. According to studies in biotechnology, Yoga can significantly improve range of motion and decrease pain in hands and wrists.

Tip: Sit up nice and straight. Put your arms out in front of you and bend at the elbow. Your pinky fingers should be facing forward. Make sure your arms are bent 90 degrees. Bend your fingers toward your palms and open again. Repeat. Add a second exercise of bending the entire hands at the wrist joints toward the center and then straighten the hands back up. Watch this, by our yoga instructor Allison, for a simple demonstration!

Hope this is helpful! Want more? We offer quick interventions or full yoga classes for your workplace. Contact us to schedule!