photo credit: René Ehrhardt

I have found that driving exacerbates my RSI or carpal tunnel syndrome.  It is pretty logical as driving involves use of the hands. I have tried to minimize my driving by getting others to drive, walking, or taking public transportation. Try not standing and holding on while on the bus or subway.

If you HAVE TO drive, drive as little as possible and follow some tips to minimize carpal tunnel syndrome:

1) I started using Ironman Elite cycling gloves because of their thick padding for cycling but found they worked well when I drove.  They make it easier to grip the steering wheel. I have also tried installing a big furry steering wheel padded cover.

2) If you drive a stick shift car, consider trading in for an automatic. Also test the steering and buy a vehicle with ‘lighter’ steering.

3) Try to hold the steering wheel in an ergonomic fashion. Hold the wheel at a “5 o’clock” and “7 o’clock” position, so that you can rest your arms on your legs and reduce the amount of grip needed.

4) Carry and ice packs in a cooler and use them when needed.

This site has additional tips.

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.

I use the Ironman Elite cycling gloves because of their thick padding.  They work well when I’m driving or biking.

You probably use a computer. RSI Warrior is a software package I have used to fight RSI.  It brings up rest break reminders, stretches, ergonomics tips, and automatic mouse clicking. Try the Free Demo