5 Ways to Protect Your Wrists Every Day

You probably don’t think about it much, but your hands and wrists function so well each day because of a complex mix of bones, cartilage, nerves, and connective tissue that all work together. 

Now, imagine all the tasks you wouldn't be able to do if you experienced an injury or disease to your wrist. Easy things you do every day could become challenging and painful.

Our team at Full Orthopedics Urgent Care in North Miami Beach, Florida, regularly treats wrist pain caused by arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, fractures, tendinitis, sprains and strains, and more.

We’d love to keep you from experiencing these sorts of issues as much as possible, so here are five ways you can protect your wrists every day.

Watch your ergonomics

Many people sit at a computer for much of their day, typing away at a keyboard. If this is you, the repetitive motions involved in typing and keyboard work can put a lot of strain on the tendons and ligaments in your wrists and forearms. 

You can combat this by using a wrist support in front of your keyboard, and you can also adjust the height of your keyboard or desk so your wrists don’t have to be bent.

Take a break

You should take regular breaks throughout the day if you use your hands and wrists for repetitive motions in your work, hobbies, or other activities. The breaks give your muscles, tendons, and ligaments a chance to relieve the tension that accumulates as you work.

Stretch and massage

During your breaks, you can do some simple stretches to help relax your wrists. You can start by bending them up and down, using your other hand to help deepen the stretch. Here are a few more stretches you can do. Massage techniques can release tension as well. 

Strengthen your muscles and bones

If your forearm muscles become stronger, they’ll provide more support and stability for your wrists, so focus on exercises that build these muscles. Make sure you’re getting your recommended calcium intake to keep your bones strong as well.

Get treatment

To prevent wrist problems that are more serious and complicated, don’t ignore any pain or discomfort you may experience. Instead, seek medical treatment right away. 

You may have to wear a brace or splint for a while to provide additional support for your wrist, or you may need additional treatment. In any case, your condition will be better served, and your recovery will be quicker if you get treated sooner rather than later.

If you’re experiencing wrist pain already, we’re happy to treat you. Call our office at 305-343-1365 or click the “Let Us Know You’re Coming” button to request an appointment online. We also take walk-ins, so if your need is urgent, come see us right away!