Carpal tunnel syndrome can be painful and since it is a progressive condition, it can leave you feeling intense pain over time. It is important to know the symptoms of carpal tunnel so that you can catch it early on. This way, you can do stretches and exercises to prevent carpal tunnel. Also, you should know if it is severe enough to where you will need to meet with a carpal tunnel doctor in Scottsdale for treatment options including surgery.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is actually very common. A pinched nerve in the wrist which causes numbness and tingling is known as carpal tunnel syndrome. It is caused by a compressed nerve in the carpal tunnel, which is a narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist. The symptoms can start gradually, causing numbness and tingling in your thumb, index and middle fingers that comes and goes, or sometimes you can even get the feeling of an electric shock in your fingers that could travel to your wrist and arm. It can also cause weakness in your wrist and hands along with issues gripping and pinching.
Stretches and Exercises to Help with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Since carpal tunnel syndrome can interfere with your daily life, you should get in the habit of doing these stretches and exercise to help prevent the symptoms from worsening.
Flexing the Wrist
Start with your palms face up to the ceiling with your arms extended straight out. Bend your wrist with the other hand toward the floor while keeping your palm face up. Do this on each side two to four times and hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds each time. This will create a nice stretch in your forearm relieving any tension.
Prayer Stretch
Place your hands in prayer position near the chin level. Keep your palms really close together in a prayer position and close to your body, slide your palms down to your waist. You will also need to do this stretch two to four times for about 15 to 30 seconds.
Pushups (Mirror Spider)
These technically aren’t pushups, but place your palms in prayer position. Slowly separate the palms and spread your fingers apart, always keeping your fingertips together. This will create a steeple position with your hands. This is a very easy stretch that you are able to anywhere and as often as you would like.
Shake!
Yes, just shake your hands and wrists! But make sure you do it vigorously and for about one to two minutes. This will help alleviate any numbness and cramps. You can do this as often as you would like throughout the day, especially when you need to relax!
Severe Cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
There might be times when your carpal tunnel syndrome has advanced where these stretches and exercises aren’t helping you find relief. This is when you will need to meet with a hand surgeon Phoenix. You will receive a proper diagnosis and treatment options that are best for your condition. Dr. Fitzmaurice at the Fitzmaurice Hand Institute offers different options and treatments based on your unique conditions. The Fitzmaurice Hand Institute is home to the EndoTech Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release System, which is the quickest way to find relief and return back to your daily activities. This is the safest and most advanced minimally invasive technique that eliminates any chance of additional injury during the process.
The Fitzmaurice Hand Institute
The Fitzmaurice Hand Institute in Arizona offers only the best patient care using only the best techniques and equipment. Your visit to the Fitzmaurice Hand Institute will be pleasant throughout the entire process, from making the appointment to follow-ups.
