Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common repetitive-motion injury. It is the biggest problem associated with using a computer keyboard. It usually affects your dominant hand and begins with pain and tingling or numbness at the base of the thumb. Not treated, the symptoms may progress to a weakened grip, severe pain in the forearm or shoulder, or permanent loss of muscle in the hand. Wrist splints may be helpful and are often used by doctors as initial treatment.
Some splints are inappropriate.
If you have continuing pain while using a splint, see your doctor. If you are experiencing the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, follow each work session with an ice massage over painful areas. Give your wrist a couple of weeks of rest. If the problem does not respond, or it gets worse, seek medical care. All rights reserved.