It’s often associated with computer use, but the effects of carpal tunnel reach much further. New data suggests that workers in other industries experience the condition more frequently than office workers.
If you worked, or work, in manufacturing or construction, you’re even more likely to feel the effects of carpal tunnel than those who spend their days hacking keys on a computer.
According to the investigation, the tight grips, lifting, and forceful wrist motions associated with manual labor were all associated with a higher risk than typing.
Carpal tunnel is one of the main causes of hand and upper extremity pain and is one of the most common work-related injuries. Its effects may continue after your career and flare up while performing daily tasks.
It is caused by swelling in ligaments and bones, which leads to nerve compression. Symptoms can include mild, occasional numbness in the fingers to hand weakness, loss of feeling, extreme pain, and even loss of function in the affected hand.
Dealing with carpal tunnel can be difficult, and treatment is best assessed by a doctor. You can try some at-home remedies, which include taking breaks from work or activities that require typing/gripping or repetitive hand motions.
You can also try finger slide exercises, which involve moving your fingers one by one, from side to side. You can also perform wrist rotations to help keep things loose.
The main takeaway from the investigation is that the stereotype of carpal tunnel being a desk or computer job associated injury is untrue. If you worked (or work) in manual labor and experience pain, it could be carpal tunnel.
Seeking treatment is recommended.