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.

It’s Not Carpal Tunnel Syndrome! RSI Theory & Therapy for Computer Professionals by Jack Bellis and Suparna Damany.

I was looking through a book store and came upon this book.  The title says it all.  Very small percentage of people actually have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, far more have Tendinitis or some other condition. The book is worth buying as it draws upon many user experiences.  It clearly goes over human anatomy, injury, diagnosis, various therapies, prevention, ergonomics, stretches, and lifestyle issues.

When you are dealing with such a debilitating condition, you should arm yourself with as much information as possible.

You may notice that your hands are usually cold due to poor circulation.  Mines were as I suffered through RSI.  I leard from my hand therapist that I could wear gloves most of the time to warm up my hands and improve circulation. No need to any special RSI glove, any glove will do.

photo credit: Okko Pyykkö

I have read many sites and books that suggest that taking vitamin supplements may help RSIs such has carpal tunnel syndrome.  I took a B complex as I was recovering and cannot say that did much but the placebo effect works well. As long as your doctor says it is ok, why not ensure you are getting enough vitamins.

NIH does mention that “some studies show that vitamin B⁶ (pyridoxine) supplements may ease the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome”

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.