If you have carpel tunnel syndrome (CTS) or are at significant risk for developing it, you really should learn strategies to either prevent, limit progression or treat the condition. Of course, once you develop it, you’ll be more focused on treatment. Fortunately, very good options exist for all of these.
How can carpal tunnel syndrome be prevented in the workplace?
Here are activities you should employ if you’re at risk for CTS. Your employer (through employee health services or even without such an entity) can develop an ergonomics program. This involves adapting the workplace (e.g. conditions and job demands) to the capability and needs of workers to complete assigned tasks. Components of ergonomics may include the following.
· Redesign of workstations, tools and tool handles, and tasks to enable the wrist to maintain a natural position during work
· Frequent rest breaks
· Job rotation among workers
· On-the-job conditioning
· Stretching exercises
· Use of splints to keep your wrists straight
· Use of correct posture and wrist position
· Wearing fingerless gloves to keep your hands warm and flexible
