Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a disorder that occurs in the nerves of the hands and wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand. The median nerve and tendons run through the carpal tunnel. When the tunnel is swollen the median nerve is pinched and causes pain, weakness and numbness to the hand and wrist. While many believe that Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is work-related, the main cause is actually hereditary. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can also be caused by rheumatoid arthritis, cysts, hypothyroidism and fluid retention. There are different treatments available for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Sometimes drugs such as, aspirin, ibuprofen, and other anti-inflammatory medications can be prescribed to help ease the pain and swelling. Other treatments include exercise, immobilization, acupuncture, chiropractic care and yoga. Simply avoiding excessive use of the hands or wrists can sometimes provide relief. For more severe cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome it may be necessary to have surgery. A tiny incision is made in the palm or wrist to cut open the Carpal Tunnel.
Ergonomics Ergonomics is the relationship between the work atmosphere and how equipment relates to the safety of the employee. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is now a wide-spread health issue in the work place due to excessive computer use. Ergonomics in the work place focus a lot on computers. The design and setup of keyboards and desks is very important but employers also need to take other factors into account. Another factor to consider for the prevention of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is proper posture. Sit in a comfortable chair set at the right height to allow the feet to sit on the floor. The chair should have arm-rests, at a comfortable height and should have plenty of back support. The work station should also be set up to allow the body to work in a natural, neutral position. Good posture can help prevent Carpal Tunnel
Ergonomics Ergonomics is the relationship between the work atmosphere and how equipment relates to the safety of the employee. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is now a wide-spread health issue in the work place due to excessive computer use. Ergonomics in the work place focus a lot on computers. The design and setup of keyboards and desks is very important but employers also need to take other factors into account. Another factor to consider for the prevention of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is proper posture. Sit in a comfortable chair set at the right height to allow the feet to sit on the floor. The chair should have arm-rests, at a comfortable height and should have plenty of back support. The work station should also be set up to allow the body to work in a natural, neutral position. Good posture can help prevent Carpal Tunnel
References: “Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.” Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. 24 Aug. 2009. “Arthritis: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.” WebMD. Ed. Marc C. Levesque, MD, PhD. 01 Feb. 2007. 24 Aug. 2009 “Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Fact Sheet.” National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. November 2002. National Institutes of Health. 24 Aug. 2009. “Ergonomics.” Wikipedia. 22 Aug. 2009. 24 Aug. 2009. “Ergonomics.” United States Department of Labor. 04 Apr. 2008. 24 Aug. 2009.