We are in the age of text messaging and portable computers. Almost everything we do today requires the use of our hands and wrists at a more intricate level than ever before.
This is one of the main reasons why so many people suffer from hand and wrist pain. The good news is that this is also why it is highly preventable.
If you take certain precautions to care for your hands and wrists now, you can avoid problems from developing in the future. Let’s talk about some of the things you can do to help prevent your wrist from suffering overuse injury, and where you can go in Delray Beach and Boynton Beach for world-class orthopedic hand treatment to prevent wrist pain.
Building Bone Strength
Consuming enough vitamin D (which can also be absorbed from sunlight) and calcium can help protect your wrist bones from bone tissue degeneration. Calcium is the mineral that gives strength to your bones and teeth, and vitamin D is essential for the absorption and regulation of calcium.
Studies show that patients with low vitamin D content in their blood are more prone to having inflamed joints. Even if you don’t have arthritis, getting adequate vitamin D will help minimize your risk of inflammatory disease and of developing wrist conditions in the future.
Investing in Ergonomics
Having an ergonomic keyboard and mouse can help you reduce the impact on your hands and wrists from typing and using the mouse. If you do not have an ergonomic mouse, consider using a mouse pad with a supportive wrist gel rest or foam rest – this can help with the proper positioning of your hands while working. This can prevent wrist pain from developing in the future.
Take Breaks and Stretch
We all need to stretch periodically throughout the day to help with circulation and to prevent our muscles from “sleeping.” When we stretch our bodies, we should not forget about our hands, too.
You can stretch your hands by making a fist and slowly releasing the fingers until they fan out. Stretch them as far as you can, and repeat this exercise for 5 to 10 times. You can also raise your arms high above your head and move your wrists around in a controlled circular motion. Doing these exercises will promote blood flow in your arms, hands, and fingers.
It is encouraged to stand up and step away from your desk or chair for at least 10 minutes several times throughout your workday. Also try to use a lighter touch when typing or using your mouse, as this can help prevent fatigue in your hands and prevent wrist pain.
Understanding Causes of Wrist Pain
The following are some conditions that may be a reason for your wrist pain:
- Gout – A complex type of arthritis, believed to be brought on by a diet rich in animal fats. This can usually be relieved by drinking plenty of water.
- Rheumatoid arthritis – Causes inflammation of the joints commonly in the hands and wrists. This is an autoimmune condition that can affect organs other than the joints.
- Peripheral neuropathy – Causes numbness and weakness in the hands and feet. This is usually associated with diabetes.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome – Causes a narrowing of the carpal tunnel in the wrist, which squeezes the median nerve, thereby leading to numbness and weakness in the arms and hands. Treatment usually focuses on addressing its underlying cause.
Hand and Wrist Care Clinic in Delray Beach, Florida
If you’re looking for a place to get your hand and wrist condition assessed and treated successfully, then look no further than board-certified orthopedic specialist Dr. Steve Meadows. If you would like to learn more about his services or to schedule an appointment, call our office today at 561-496-6622 or use our convenient appointment request form. We look forward to helping you feel your best!
