Have you ever felt numbness or discomfort after typing or using the mouse for a long period of time? The discomfort can be annoying and sometimes even painful. Concentrating on your work, spending more than a few hours finishing a project, the tingling and numbness starts to kick in, affecting the wrist, fingers, and forearm.
Does typing or using the mouse cause carpal tunnel syndrome?
Researchers have debated about whether computer usage causes carpal tunnel syndrome for while now. For many years, it was a given: spending more than six to seven hours at a computer will cause CTS. However, in the last few years, the belief that computer work causes carpal tunnel has come under criticism. Some in the medical profession argue that only repetitive, strenuous labors like working in the meatpacking or construction industry can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Using a computer is too light of an activity to cause CTS. Recently, though, researchers from the Centre of Expertise for Health and Work Ability have concluded that excessive computer usage, especially using the mouse for long periods of time, can be a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome.
The Benefits of an Ergonomic Specialist
There are a variety of treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel can be treated surgically. A surgeon might cut a ligament around the carpal tunnel, opening up space and releasing some of that extra pressure placed on the median nerve. A physical or occupational therapist can also treat CTS. The therapist can help improve wrist and finger strength as well as decrease swelling before and after surgery. Ergonomics and working comfortably at ones work station is also part of the process. With the use of ergonomic equipment such as a adjustable keyboard tray, an ergonomist can give a client the equipment and the techniques necessary to place the wrist in a comfortable, neutral posture. Ergonomics can help a person return to work after rehabilitating from carpal tunnel syndrome. Sensitive from the after effects of surgery or trying to prevent further pain at work, a ergonomist can provide ergonomic equipment and teach people recovering from CTS about proper wrist positions to sit and work comfortably, without aggravating old symptoms.
Thanks for reading,
Shaul Lent CEAS, MA, OTR/L