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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
"a painful condition caused by repetitive flexing or stressing of the wrist over a lengthy period of time. CTS is caused by pressure on the median nerve, which carries nervous impulses back and forth between the hand and the spinal cord" ("carpal tunnel" 2005). This technical definition taken from Encyclopaedia Britannica reveals to us exactly why extensive computer use can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. Typing and mouse movements require heavy use of the wrist, which in the long run can lead to excruciating wrist pain. "CTS typically occurs in workers who do repetitive hand tasks or whose tasks require awkward hand positions; repeated, forceful gripping or grasping motions; or mechanical stress on the palms. CTS occurs most commonly in assembly-line workers and in people who spend prolonged periods of time typing on computer keyboards. Avoiding or reducing the activity responsible for the syndrome often alleviates the symptoms in mild cases. More serious cases are relieved by anti-inflammatory drugs while the patient wears a wrist brace or splint. Surgery is also sometimes necessary to correct the condition."1 One should always remember to relax the wrist periodically. A theme that comes up frequently in treating these physical symptoms of prolonged computer use is that regular breaks may reduce the risk of these ailments significantly. If you feel pain in your wrist regularly, it is a good idea to get into the habit of wearing wrist braces.
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