You spend three to ten hours a day on a computer, phone, or other communication device. While you may use both your thumbs and your hands, they are always being used. Although arthritis cannot be cured completely, there are some tips that can help. There are home remedies that can help you loosen up the joints and allow you to continue using your hands after it has set in. Take a break: Stop typing or using the mouse at least once an hour. Gentle exercises include clinching and unclinching fists, rotating the hand at the wrist, and other movements. This could help to prevent carpal tunnel.
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- Use ergonomic mice, keyboards, and mouse pads to prevent osteoarthritis and carpal tunnel. Avoid keyboards or mouse pads that require you to rest your hands on a hard surface or lay flat on the bad. Consider wrist supports: Talk to your doctor about a wrist brace. This will ensure that your wrists are properly supported and not locked in an unnatural way. It may take some trial and error before you find the right support for you office. But it is worth it.
- There is no cure for arthritis. However, there are things you can do at your home that will make it less painful and allow more of your activities.
Treatments
To ensure that you are receiving the best treatment for your condition, it is best to consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment.
- Ice/heat Both can be helpful at different times. The heat can relax muscles and joints, making it easier for you to move and to type/text. Ice can be used to reduce inflammation that may have developed during the day.
- Anti-inflammatory medication. There are many medications that can be taken, both over-the-counter and prescription. Your doctor may recommend tylenol, naproxen, and Ibuprofen. Although aspirin may not cause any problems, it is an option.
- Herbal remedies. Comfrey, gotu Kola, and Willow bark can all be beneficial. Comfrey should not be eaten and can cause liver and kidney damage, even if applied topically. Willow should not be used by people who are allergic to aspirin, on aspirin-related medications, or who have gout.
- Topical pain relievers – Capsaicin can be used to block the pain signal from your brain. It is strong and counter-irritant so make sure to test it first before you apply it everywhere. Camphor may also be helpful. If you take the right care, hand pain from arthritis won’t affect your career or interfere with your communication. To determine the best treatment for your hands and wrists, consult your doctor if you have concerns about arthritis or carpal tunnel.