I type a lot and click my mouse a lot every day. I spend about 10 hours per day at my computer.
Over the last week I have noticed that my hand has been numb and tingly when I wake up. Today not only that, but my wrist was killing me for the first 5 minutes or so that I was on my computer. Am I getting arthritic, carpal tunnel, or maybe something else? I am about 30 years old and have been working on the computer for about 10 years @ an average of 50-60 hours per week.
2006-06-25 04:55:41 · 15 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Other - Health
Where on your hand was numb and tingly? If it is carpal Tunnel, this refers to compression of the median nerve as it passive through the carpal tunnel at the wrist causing an irritation to the median nerve. In turn, the median nerve supplies sensation for the thumb, index, middle and the 1/2 of the ring finger closest to the middle finger. Any or all of this could be numb. If you also experienced tingling in the other half of your ring finger or your pinky, this is not carpal tunnel syndrome because that area is supplied by the ulnar nerve. Arthritis could be an option; however, it does not normally present with a sudden onset as you describe, and would likely worsen as the day goes on with the repeated typing, not improve. Your best bet would be to go to the doctor (orthopedic doctor) if this really concerns you.
2006-06-25 05:02:30 · answer #1 · answered by tj 2 · 9⤊ 1⤋
Carpal tunnel is distinguished by numbness and tingling in three of your digits in your hand. You can also do a test put the back of your hands together, fingers pointing down, if that causes bad pain, may be carpal tunnel. Arthritis? You seem to young for that. Purchase a wrist splint and use it when you type. If you are getting a lot of numbness you may need surgery, pretty common and not real invasive. Use the splint first and take anti-inflammatorys, your wrist may just be sore.
Mike RN
2006-06-25 05:03:45 · answer #2 · answered by MIke D 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It sounds like carpal tunnel, although I am not a doctor. I used to be a work comp adjuster and read tons of medical records. The tingling is one of the biggest signs of carpal tunnel, as is the numbness. You can try resting your hands for a couple of days and see if it gets better, or you can try going to the doctor and see if the doctor thinks it is carpal tunnel. If it is, the doctor can prescribe a special brace for you to wear which will help with the symptoms.
2006-06-25 04:59:39 · answer #3 · answered by Amy G 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have the same thing. Probably carpal tunnel and nerve damage. Until you stop using the computer it will keep hurting.
Buy a wrist brace (the kind that is sorta foam with velcro and looks like a womans corset about 7 inches long) at walmart pharmacy (maybe $20) and wear it every night when you sleep. You have to make it a little tight to get your arm/wrist/hand immobilized. This helps me alot and makes it so I can do my job. There are surgical corrections too but I'm not going there.
2006-06-25 05:03:12 · answer #4 · answered by mdemo1 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have the same problem! There are great sites if you look up both carpal tunnel symptoms and arthritis symptoms on the web.
Of course, seeing a doctor is best, but sometimes, you can find tips to help you in the mean time by reading up on them. : )
2006-06-25 05:03:10 · answer #5 · answered by Girth B 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It sure can be carpal tunnel but, it would be best to see a physical therapist to tell you for sure and to get treatment. As far as waking up with tingling hands it could be that you are laying on them when you are sleeping but, I would definitely get it checked out by a professional.
2006-06-25 05:01:29 · answer #6 · answered by themisslita 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, it could be carpal tunnel syndrome. Go see your doctor and he will probably give you a splint to wear. If the problem gets worse ( I had pain that radiated up to my elbow as well as the typical numbness and tingling), he may refer you to a specialist who then do a nerve conduction test to see how bad it is. It may require surgery.
Note: If it's work related, make sure to keep proper documentation for insurance purposes. I was getting workman's comp and they can be kinda "funny".
2006-06-25 05:00:46 · answer #7 · answered by margarita 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have you noticed your grip of a pen or pencil beginning to hurt? You have the symptoms of carpal tunnel. Check with a chiropractor to get the bones aligned if you do not want to get surgery.
2006-06-25 04:58:57 · answer #8 · answered by skipped82451 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am 29 and I am always on the computer as well.I sounds like both carpal and arthritis.I noticed my after high school in color guard (marching band).It feels like a big cramp that doesn't go away.To relieve my I wrap it up with a hot wet towel or heating pad.Hope this helps
2006-06-25 05:04:30 · answer #9 · answered by cjmccreery4 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
sounds like carpal tunnel - remember if it is then it is considered a work related injury and your employer will have to compensate so don't waste time cause it will only get worse get to the doctor fast
2006-06-25 05:02:45 · answer #10 · answered by prettymama 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋