Repetitive Motion from Computer Work, Smartphones and Texting, can Cause Women Wrist Pain According to Holly Herman, Doctor of Physical Therapy, Orthopedic and Women’s Health
Nearly 8 million people of working age suffer with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome which can cause pain, cramping, loss of muscle mass and weakness. Wrist muscles and tendons that connect the hand to the forearm and allow our hand to open, close and move on demand can become painful for many women due to repetitive motion from constant texting, smartphone usage and use of the keyboard and mouse.
Tips and tricks for women to alleviate wrist pain without surgery:
- Take a break every five minutes; stand up, walk around and stretch your hands, neck and shoulders.
- Rest your elbows on an armrest or on your sides while using gadgets.
- Try using an ergonomic stylus.
- Support your wrist with Wellgate for Women’s Perfectfit Wrist Support night and day to keep the wrist in a neutral position and allow it to be supported. It’s a very comfortable brace made specifically for women’s anatomy.
- Try holding the arm out straight and flexing the hand at the wrist to relieve pressure on the 5 nerves and stretch their shoulders, neck and upper body to relieve the tension on the nerves in the armpit, under the clavicle, and over the ribs.
- Start moving, stretching, self-massaging and correcting painful, repetitive motion activities.
- Consult with a PT to help correct the height of your chair and desk. Have your feet resting on the floor, your arms at your sides and angled up 2 inches to rest on the keyboard rather than raising the shoulders and putting the wrists at an awkward angle.
- Move your fingers, keeping your wrists in a more neutral position rather than always straight.
- Use a keyboard pad to rest your wrists.
- Keep your feet flat on the floor. Maintain good posture when typing, ensuring your spine is flush with the back of the chair, and shoulders are relaxed.
- Keep your computer monitor at eye level.
- Remember that any repetitive motion activities like slicing, dicing and gardening can put strain on the wrist—so hourly breaks are crucial.
“Keep your wrists strong and safe with the right support, take breaks from repetitive motion activities and consider your options before committing to surgery,” adds Herman.
Dr. Holly Herman has been a physical therapist for more than 44 years, with a full-time private practice in Cambridge, MA, HealthyWomen HealthyMen. Dr. Herman provides expert care for women and men seeking careful, considerate diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic and other medical conditions.
The Editorial Team at Lake Oconee Health is made up of skilled health and wellness writers and experts, led by Daniel Casciato who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We aim to provide our readers with valuable insights and guidance to help them lead healthier and happier lives.
