Health Tip: Reduce Your Risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Help protect your wrists

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(HealthDay News) -- Carpal tunnel syndrome includes a number of conditions characterized by swelling, pain, tingling and weakness in the wrists and hands.

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The National Women's Health Information Center says you can help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome by taking these precautions:

• When you work at a computer, make sure your equipment is kept at an ideal height and distance, limiting strain on your hands and wrists. Also, keep your elbows near your sides as you type.
• Take a break once an hour.
• Scatter activities that require repetitive movements of the hands and wrists.
• Gently stretch and bend your hands and wrists in the opposite direction from typical movements.
• Keep your muscles warm while you work. Consider fingerless gloves if you work in a cold office.

-- Diana Kohnle