Stopping activities that cause wrist and hand pain

Stop any activities that you think may be causing numbness and pain.

• If your symptoms improve when you stop an activity, resume that activity gradually. As you do, keep your wrists straight or only slightly bent.
• Avoid repeated bending or twisting movements of the wrist.
• Periodically rest your hands or rotate work activities.

During breaks, stretch your fingers and thumbs. Do wrist circles. Switch hands and change your grip often.

If you suspect your carpal tunnel syndrome is work-related, you may need to talk with your workplace safety officer about changes in equipment or rotating some of your duties. Make sure new work changes do not cause other wrist problems or aggravate your condition.