Computer work can be a real pain in the hand. If you frequently use computers, you are probably prone to painful wrists and hands. In some cases, it develops into a full-blown medical condition, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or de Quervain's tendonitis, which may require medical treatment. You can relieve your hand pain from computer work using a variety of home cures. In approaching the problem from many different angles, you'll start to see a marked difference in your pain level.
Computer work can be a real pain in the hand. If you frequently use computers, you are probably prone to painful wrists and hands. In some cases, it develops into a full-blown medical condition, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or de Quervain's tendonitis, which may require medical treatment. You can relieve your hand pain from computer work using a variety of home cures. In approaching the problem from many different angles, you'll start to see a marked difference in your pain level.
Step 1
Reduce the amount of time you spend on your computer. Though this may not be possible, the less you use your computer, the more time your hands have to heal. Try alternating computer tasks with other activities that you have to do.
Step 2
Use a speech-to-text software program. A speech-to-text software program automatically types the words that you speak. You have to "train" the software to recognize your voice, but the more you use it, the better it works. It can take some getting used to, though. For example, you must say the word "period" whenever you want the program to finish a sentence. However, this can greatly reduce the amount of time you spend typing.
Step 3
Pay attention to ergonomics, which is the science of positioning your workspace to meet your physical needs. If you are typing with your hands angled up, you can cause more injury to your hands. To relieve hand pain from the computer, you can use a wrist rest to support your hands and a chair that allows you to sit a bit straighter. You can also purchase special ergonomic keyboards that place your hands in a more comfortable position.
Step 4
Purchase braces for your hands. A brace can hold your hands steady in the correct position, which can help prevent hand pain. There are two types of wrist braces. Elastic ones are inexpensive and can offer support. If your pain is severe, you may want to try braces that have a metal bar that forces you to keep your hands in the correct position.
Step 5
Ice the area to relieve pain and swelling. Wrap the ice in a towel rather than putting it directly on your skin.
Step 6
Take pain medication to ease muscle soreness. Over-the-counter medications can help you to feel better. If you are pregnant or lactating, please consult your doctor before taking medication.
Step 7
Visit your doctor if these solutions do not work for you. Your problem may be more serious.
