photo credit: Akajos

Research has indicated that massage helps with pain from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or RSI. I have personally tried this many times with poor results.  The problem may be that many massage therapists do not know how to lightly work on the affected areas.  After a massage my hands would feel like I typed far too long. It would take a day or two for me to recover.  I have since told them to omit any area from my forearms to my hands.

There are many RSI support groups around the nation. I have attended the San Francisco RSI Support group and found it helpful. They have monthly sessions with knowledgeable speakers.

It is always great to learn new things, share tips with others, and realize that you are not alone in your recovery.

Pascarelli’s Book has a good chapter on when and how to do strengthening exercises to combat RSI or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by using weights. He does not talk about size of weights to use when weight training.

When I started his program, I started with very light 1lb dumbbell weights and slowly moved up increments after many months of therapy. I have been doing these weight training exercises every morning for years.

As usual, consult your doctor and hand therapist for advice on weight training.

Taking breaks during computer use is critical to healing. I use a timer like this Polder Digital Timer to remind me to take breaks. I set it for say 20 minutes, then it beeps and I stop using the computer and take a break for 20 minutes.

You can vary the amount of computer usage and break length depending on your injury status.

Hot and Cold Transition Baths have helped my hands feel better.  I fill 2 pitchers, 1 with hot water from the tap, and another with cold tap water plus a few ice cubes.

I dump my arm into one pitcher for 30 seconds, then into the other for 30 seconds.  I repeat about 3-5 times.   This helps by improving circulation to your arm.  I do this every day.