Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Health Center

Hand and Wrist Movements

Try to avoid hand and wrist movements that can cause pain and other symptoms.

• Keep your wrists straight or only slightly bent. Avoid activities that bend or twist the wrists for long periods of time.
• Take frequent breaks from typing or other repetitive activities to stretch your hands and wrists.
• Avoid doing repetitive movements (hammering, typing, knitting, quilting, sweeping, raking, playing racquet sports, rowing) for long periods of time without rest breaks.
• Avoid holding objects in one position for long periods of time (holding a book or playing cards).
• Watch your grip. Gripping with only the thumb and index finger can stress the wrist. Whenever possible, use your whole hand to grasp an object.
• Reduce the speed and force of repetitive hand movements.
• When working with tools that vibrate (drills, sanders), use specially designed gloves that support the wrist and have vibration-absorbing padding. Take frequent breaks, and switch hands often.