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Carpal tunnel syndrome generally characterized by pain is caused by swelling within a slight opening in the wrist. It is frequently caused by a recurrent strain or stress on the region, exacerbating the median nerve running through the passage.

Having repeated movements during the course of the day, such as things which are associated with computer use and typing, put extra pressure on the carpal tunnel. This can create symptoms such as pain, tingling and numbness, besides being in the hands, it is also sometimes in the fingers, forearms. It is possible that injuries to the wrist or conditions such as pregnancy, arthritis or diabetes can also be to blame for carpal tunnel syndrome-- making a correct diagnosis imperative.

Fortunately, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is treatable and manageable through the use of simple exercises, over-the-counter medications, and in some cases, surgical treatment. Today there are many websites with free carpal tunnel syndrome exercises online. They are either in the form of videos or helpful articles and illustrations to use for treating the condition.

There are a few precautions that you will need to take, although they are not difficult, with using the correct positioning or ergonomic setup during your work time will decrease the possibility of being affected by carpal tunnel syndrome. If you currently have this condition, ergonomics will be of help to reduce your existing symptoms. While you use the keyboard, you should always place in right in front of you while making sure you keep your shoulders relaxed and make sure to have your upper arms in a neutral position.

Adjust the height of your desk or work surface so that the keyboard allows the hands, wrists, and forearms to be in a comfortable position with no pressure or strain. Avoid placing the wrists on any hard surfaces, or resting them on your desk for long periods of time as this will put more pressure on the carpal tunnel and cause an increase in swelling as well as pain.

To relieve the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome use this simple work out.

1. You have to stretch both your wrists and fingers in front of your body, then extend the hands and fingers upwards as if you were indicating stop motion.

2. You have to keep yourself in this position for a count of five before relaxing and making your wrists straight in front of the body.

3. Afterward, you should make a fist with both of your hands while your arms are still stretched forward.

4. Curl the wrists while still keeping them in the initial position, downwards towards the floor and then hold for a count of five.

5. Relax and extend your wrists and hands into their customary positions, then follow the preceding steps again, up to 5-7 additional repetitions.