Wrist pain

[Aidensmom]

I think I may have carpal tunnel syndrome. I work on a computer all day, and spend more time on it at home. For years, by Friday my wrist would be crampy and painful. Lately it has been every day. The past couple of days it hurts to do ANYTHING with my wrist, and I have it wrapped in an Ace bandage just to be able to keep from moving it.

What kind of doctor do I need to see to get it checked out? Any advice in the mean time on controlling the pain?

Thanks.

 

[Miss Jasmine]

I would just start out with your Primary Care Physician. Usually CTS is more than just pain, usually there is some numbness in the pinky area. Try flicking yourself on the underside of your wrist and see if you get any numbness. Either way, sounds like something you should get checked out if it is bothering you!

Edited to add: Hey Aidensmom, don't listen to me, it's not the PINKY. Sheesh I should know better than to comment on scientific matters.

 

[PrincessCLM]

I would start by making an appointment with a primary care. If they think it's necessary they'll send you to an orthopedist. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is more than just having pain in the wrist. You should also feel numbness or tingling in your thumb and index finger, sometimes your middle. (Sorry to the poster above, but not the pinky, that would be a different nerve)
However, sitting at a computer all day can cause lots of problems. If it's determined that you don't have carpal tunnel, try making sure that you check your wrists straight while typing and using the mouse. Also make sure that you have a good seat height.
Hope this helps and you get better soon!

 

[Miss Jasmine]

I would start by making an appointment with a primary care. If they think it's necessary they'll send you to an orthopedist. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is more than just having pain in the wrist. You should also feel numbness or tingling in your thumb and index finger, sometimes your middle. (Sorry to the poster above, but not the pinky, that would be a different nerve)
However, sitting at a computer all day can cause lots of problems. If it's determined that you don't have carpal tunnel, try making sure that you check your wrists straight while typing and using the mouse. Also make sure that you have a good seat height.
Hope this helps and you get better soon!

Hey no apoligies, I couldn't remember which finger(s). I just remembered about the numbness because I was having some wrist problems. I may have taken Anatomy & Physiology but was many years ago, I have no ideas about what nerves go where now!!!

 

[SherryNC]

Holy crap, how are lifting your bottles of beer?? Start using straws.