Carpal tunnel syndrome has been on the increase as typing and repetitive movements put more strain on the wrists and hands, especially if you type on a computer keyboard for work or personal use. When you are suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, there are some techniques you can try to heal your symptoms before you select to have surgery. Here are some tips to try to relieve your carpal tunnel discomfort and how to prepare for surgery with your orthopedic surgeon.

Try At-Home Remedies

Before you select to have surgery, there are many things you can try at home to help reduce the severity of your syndrome. First off you need to rest your arms and hands and ice the affected areas 10 to 15 minutes every hour throughout the day. You should also try wearing a supportive wrist brace, which can help ease the pressure and numbness.

Change up your diet to include more healthy whole foods and less processed and sugary ones. Increase your intake of foods containing healthy omega-3s, as they are helpful for fighting inflammation in your body. Whole foods in your diet will boost your intake of natural vitamins and minerals to additionally fight inflammation. Also be sure to drink plenty of water to help your body get rid of toxins that can cause excess inflammation.

You can also try various stretches and exercises with your arms and wrists to relieve the symptoms. Your orthopedic surgeon or doctor can recommend specific instructions and provide guidance for proper stretching.

Prepare for Surgery

When you choose to have surgery to relieve your carpal tunnel syndrome your orthopedic surgeon will surgically release the wrist nerves and tendons from their unnatural pressure inside the carpal tunnel. But to prepare for this surgery you will need to do all you can to help make your surgery successful. For example, if you are a smoker, you should try to quit before your surgery. Smoking can cause your body to heal more slowly, and after surgery you want your surgery site to heal as quickly and as efficiently as possible.

Let your surgeon know of any medications you are on so you can quit taking any of those that will affect the surgery and your heal time. For example, if you are taking any ibuprofen or naproxen, you should hold off on taking it as they prevent your blood from clotting and your blood needs to be able to clot efficiently during and after surgery for the incisions to heal well. Let your surgeon know if you are taking any vitamins and supplements, just to ensure none will affect the surgery.

Contact a clinic, like Orthopaedic Associates Of Rochester, for more help.

Share