I have carpal tunnel syndrome. What exercises would help with this?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a classic repetitive strain injury (RIS). It is caused by compression of the median nerve that runs through the wrist, and can cause pain or numbness in the thumb, the palm and/or first three fingers. It's usually seen in people who do repetitive fine-motor tasks like computer work, but it can also result from swelling due to pregnancy, diabetes, water retention, tendinitis and those who work with tools.
Years ago, people thought the best way to treat carpal tunnel was to do weighted wrist flexion exercises to try to build up the area, but this only aggravated the condition in unsuspecting sufferers. The best course of action is to take no action - let the area rest for a few days, to bring the inflammation down. Weight training can aggravate an already aggravated area, so unless you are there to just do cardio work, it's best to stay out of the gym until symptoms subside.
Flexibility goes a long way in preventing and treating the symptoms. Try to take a break from the computer and stretch the wrist and fingers out often. Some people also wear a wrist brace to keep the wrist from flexing. Some supplements have proven successful in reducing swelling, including butcher's broom and bromelain. A good Vitamin B complex can help nerve function, and the homeopathic remedy rhus toxidendron has been shown to reduce stiffness and overuse symptoms in the joints. If the carpal tunnel has its origins in the neck, back or shoulder area, a visit to a chiropractor or osteopath can also help.