Why Your Hands Are Going Numb During The Night And What You Can Do To Prevent It

Nov 23, 2018

Do your hands tingle or feel numb at night? You might be one of the millions of Americans suffering from the earliest symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome, also known as median nerve compression, is the compression of one of the nerves that run from the palm of your hand to your forearm.

Carpal tunnel syndrome causes pain, itching and numbness that make everyday tasks, like typing, difficult. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent or reduce the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Any activity that requires repetitive hand and wrist motions puts you in danger of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Set an alarm to remind yourself to take a break every two or three hours. While you're taking a break, try to move around, or try out some exercises like these. One healthy choice leads to another, and when you get moving, you will increase your circulation.

There is a direct relationship between carpal tunnel syndrome and your wrist's posture. Avoid bending your wrist as much as possible and adjust your desk chair, so the keyboard is level with your forearms. Switching which hand you use to complete daily tasks will give your muscles a chance to recover.

Splints can limit the mobility of your wrist, preventing you from overexerting yourself. Many carpal tunnel syndrome sufferers choose to wear a splint at work and while they're sleeping.

You probably know that exercise is important to your health, but did you know that exercising your wrists can reduce your chances of developing carpal tunnel syndrome? Flex, bend and stretch your wrists often while working. Check out these simple stretches from WebMD to get started.

Make sure your spine is straight, and both feet are flat on the floor. Tension is your shoulders could affect your wrists, putting you at risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

If you're experiencing pain from carpal tunnel syndrome, apply ice packs to your wrists. Ice won't cure or prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, but it will reduce pain and inflammation, giving you temporary relief. If you don't have an ice pack handy, soak your wrists in an ice bath for no more than 10 minutes at a time.

When the temperatures start to drop, make sure your wrists are covered. Stiffness and pain are worse in colder climates. Consider keeping an extra pair of gloves in your car and desk drawer. Single-use hand warmers are also a great way to keep the cold at bay.

There is no definitive way to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, but by taking certain precautions, you can drastically reduce your chances of being affected by this debilitating syndrome. Did you find this list helpful? Let us know in the comments - and don't forget to share! 

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation by your doctor. Your health is important to us!