Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a classic example of repetitive strain

If you work in an office setting, try to quantify the amount of hours you have spent in front of your computer. Now try to determine what percentage of that has you sitting motionless, with only your hands and fingers moving. Even if you can’t come up with a number, it’s probably a lot right? So it’s no wonder that your hands and fingers can suffer from the strain known as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The pain is very similar to both forms of arthritis, but the difference is that CTS is preventable! Read on to find out how.

Preventing repetitive strain in the office

While this blog focuses specifically on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, the tips below can apply to any part of your office life that is causing you pain. Here are some prevention techniques for CTS and other repetitive strain conditions:

• Start with ergonomics: adjust your workplace to accomodate your particular body type. Specific to CTS, you want your keyboard at elbow level or slightly lower, with wrists supported and resting rather than strained and suspended.
• Then adjust your posture: sitting is bad for your spine but you can mitigate the risks by trying to adhere as closely as possible to neutral posture.
• Take frequent breaks: every half hour is ideal, but at least once an hour to relieve the monotony that accrues from white collar work. 
• Stretch your hands and wrists: gently bend and flex each wrist 5-6 times and follow up with your fingers.
• Strengthen hands and wrists in your spare time. 

This preventative approach to office injuries characterizes our approach to healthcare at Associates in Chiropractic.

No matter the particular risks of your job or lifestyle, we want to help you create solutions that will minimize pain and maximize wellness. If you are interested in using our services to prevent repetitive strain, give our office in Hackensack a call to schedule an appointment today.