Reduce wrist pain with the help of these exercises

Darielle Britto | Oct 7, 2019, 11:51 IST
Wrist pain can significantly impact the quality of your life. A painful wrist can make getting dressed or even driving your car a bit of a challenge.

Many contributing factors can cause wrist pain. "Wrist pain is often caused by sprains or fractures from sudden injuries," according to the Mayo Clinic. However, long-term issues like carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis can also lead to the condition.

Experts also warn texting too much may also cause wrist pain. “I think we may see more problems in terms of hand disorders, such as tendinitis, repetitive strain injuries, arthritis, thumb arthritis down the road, and even possibly carpal tunnel syndrome,” Dr Sanjeev Kakar, an orthopedic surgeon at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester (US), told a news portal.

Adding, “Kids 20 years ago were not using handheld devices, and now they’re using them all the time in schools and at home. We may be at the tip of an iceberg, and we’re going to see a cumulative effect."

Dr Kakar further explained: “I don’t think this will happen if you’ve texted once in your life. I think the process of doing this over 20 to 30 years may lead to having these problems down the road.”

No matter what the cause, there are a few simple ways you can heal the issue. Here are a few exercises that could help to reduce wrist pain

* Gentle range-of-motion stretch

Some light range-of-motion exercises are a simple way to reduce stiffness, pain and swelling, according to a report by the Harvard Medical School. This technique could also offer relief for those suffering from osteoarthritis symptoms. All you have to do is move your hand downward till you feel a little stretch while in a seated position. Make sure you stay in this position for at least 10 seconds. You should do this exercise thrice a day.

* Resistance band exercise

A resistance band can be an effective way to reduce wrist pain. "It adds stability and strength to your wrist without over-loading the joint," Caitlin Murray, a licensed athletic trainer for Athletico Physical Therapy in Chicago, told a news portal. Adding, "It can be especially helpful for people with arthritic wrists or with tendonitis."

* Nerve glide

Nerve glides could help reduce wrist pain especially if you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons reveals this technique may also help to reduce the compression on the median nerve.

If these techniques fail to improve the condition, it is time to see a doctor. The right treatment can prevent it from getting worse. It is also important to consult with an expert before trying these exercises.

Picture Courtesy: Google Images
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