| Here is a news flash, Wrist Pads and Gel Pads are | | | | repetitive, like working on the computer, typing, |
| not proven to prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome | | | | playing video games, etc. |
| (CTS). In fact, they may actually make matters | | | | 3. Try to find a sitting position with your elbows |
| worse. To understand this better, one needs to | | | | at your sides, and your keyboard straight out, |
| know what Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is. Since I like | | | | level with your elbows. |
| to get right to the point, I will explain it in one | | | | 4. If you MUST use a wrist pad, do not press into |
| sentence. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is when | | | | it or put weight on your hand. In fact, try not to |
| constant pressure and repetitive movements or | | | | touch it at all. |
| stresses cause the "tunnel" of bones and | | | | More information on CTS Prevention can be found |
| ligaments in your wrists to narrow, which pinch | | | | here. |
| the nerves that pass through the "tunnel". This | | | | One of the fundamental ways to prevent Carpal |
| pinching of nerves can cause numbness, pain, and | | | | Tunnel Syndrome is actually to make sure your |
| damage to your hand. | | | | computer desk has an elbow-level keyboard tray. |
| The carpal tunnel in your wrist is actually quite | | | | The tray should be low enough so that you can |
| tight. There is very little room for anything but | | | | adjust your seat height to form a 90 degree |
| the tendons and nerves that pass through it, so | | | | angle at your elbows. In this position, you will be |
| any additional pressure, from say, a wrist pad for | | | | able to sit and work longer, with improved |
| your mouse, will increase the chance that the | | | | comfort. No wrist pad required. |
| median nerve in your hand gets pinched and | | | | Unfortunately, the Wrist Pad myth is everywhere. |
| irritated. Repetitive movements and stresses | | | | If you do a quick search on the Internet, you will |
| could cause your tendons to swell, which would | | | | find a lot of people peddling Wrist Pads and Gel |
| just make matters worse. | | | | Pads as something that can improve comfort, |
| Tips to Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) | | | | relieve stresses, and prevent Carpal Tunnel |
| 1. Try not to rest your wrists directly on any | | | | Syndrome. Do not believe it. Your wrists will thank |
| surface while typing or using a mouse | | | | you! |
| 2. Take frequent breaks when doing anything | | | | |