Being a college student can be dangerous. We are constantly under threat from nervous breakdowns, alcohol poisoning, depression, and a myriad of other health issues.
However, there are some things that are doing us some major harm without us even thinking about it, and by the time we realize what is happening, it may be too late.
According to webmd.com, carpal tunnel happens “when the median nerve is compressed because of swelling of the nerve or tendons or both.” When this nerve is exposed to prolonged damage, it can lead to pain, numbness, and a tingling sensation in the arm.
There are plenty of things that college students do on a routine basis that could make getting carpal tunnel more likely. Repetitive wrist movement and prolonged typing are both major causes of this syndrome, and, let’s face it, college students are often victims of both.
Students are constantly on their computers typing. Papers, social networking, gaming. Typing, typing, typing. Goodness, I’m even typing right now.
Repetitive wrist motion is everywhere in every major.
Musicians frequently play their instruments, which require them to keep their wrists put.
Science majors have to perform labs, some of which require the recurring movement.
Computer science majors are constantly typing (look, more typing right here)!
I’m sure I could go on and list how each major runs the risk of carpal tunnel, but the amount of typing it would take me might do me in.
So what exactly happens when you get carpal tunnel? Is it just pain and numbness, or is it much worse?
Well, in some cases, it is just pain and numbness. However, some more severe cases could impact grip strength, lead to median nerve and muscle deterioration, decrease overall nerve function in the hand, and could potentially lead to loss of the use of the hand in question.
If at any point you suddenly loose feeling in your arm suddenly, call 9-1-1.
If you have been experiencing prolonged (usually over 2 weeks) numbness or pain in your hand or have decreased or no function in your hand, call a doctor.
There are ways to prevent getting carpal tunnel. By taking care of yourself and keeping your muscles (especially those in your fingers, hands and arms) strong, you decrease your risk for damage.
Try alternating hands if at all possible and take breaks if you are using repetitive hand motions.
You may also want to look into wearing a wrist splint for when you cannot control your wrist, like when you are asleep. It will keep you from doing more damage to your joints, muscles, tendons, and nerves.
Now that you know what to do, put down the paper before your hand cramps.
If you’re reading this online, take a break and give your eyes a rest. I know my wrist needs one.
Becki Brown
Editor in Chief