Latest news with #carpaltunnelsyndrome
Forbes
07-08-2025
- Forbes
These Ergonomic Mice From ProtoArc Are Designed To Counter RSI And Reduce Injury?
Recently, I wrote about some high-end ergonomic mice from Unimouse, but those specialist mice aren't particularly affordable. What are your options if you need an ergonomic mouse that will help with conditions like RSI and carpal tunnel syndrome without breaking the bank? In this hands-on feature, I look at two new ergonomic and affordable mice that could help provide a better way of pushing your cursor across the screen with less risk of pain or injury. ProtoArc is a brand that's perhaps best known for making a range of folding keyboards and travel mice. However, the company also makes a series of ergonomic mice and input devices that can help people who find using a regular mouse painful or difficult. The brand also produces left-handed mice for the 10% of the population who veer to the left. A Vertical Mouse First up from ProtoArc is the EM11 NL vertical wireless mouse that has an extended wrist rest that fits the palm snugly while promoting a more natural and relaxed position of the forearm and wrist. The vertical design helps minimize the risk of injury from RSI and reduces muscle tension in the arm for more comfort throughout the working day. With a choice of connectivity between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless, the EM11 NL can connect with up to three different host devices simultaneously. The user can switch between paired devices by clicking on the mode button. The mouse also has left and right buttons, a scroll wheel, a third button, plus forward and backward buttons for when you are browsing the web. Unlike most mice powered by alkaline batteries, the EM11 NL has a built-in rechargeable 500mAh Li-ion battery that can be charged with a USB Type-C cable. After 30 minutes of inactivity, the mouse enters sleep mode to save energy but will wake up when moved. There's a low battery LED to signify when it's time to recharge the mouse. Adjustable Resolution A useful feature on this mouse is the adjustable resolution setting. The optical sensor on the EM11 NL can be set to 1,000, 1,600 and 2,400 DPI, which provides different levels of sensitivity and can be useful when working on precise image editing or when using a design package like Adobe Illustrator or CAD. The buttons on the EM11 NL are designed to be quiet and programmable, although not with macOS. The mouse works perfectly with a Mac but its buttons can only be customized with a Windows computer. For example, the forward and backward buttons don't work when browsing the web with a Mac. Windows users can extensively customize the buttons and actions without any difficulty. If you are a Mac user, you simply can't customize the mouse buttons, which is a shame. If you want a fully programmable mouse for your Mac, then look at what Logitech has to offer because it has Logi Options+ software, arguably one of the best mouse and keyboard software packages on the market. Keeping Track The second ergonomic mouse option launched by ProtoArc is the EM01 NL, a mouse that's also a trackball. I've been using a Logitech trackball for years now after getting a nasty case of RSI and I wouldn't go back to using a regular mouse. A trackball suits my way of working and it could suit yours too, especially if you find you have a sore arm and shoulders after hours spent working at your computer. The ProtoArc EM01 NL has the usual left and right mouse buttons, a scroll wheel, third button, forward and backward buttons, plus two more programmable buttons. Once again, the EM01 NL works fine with a Mac, but the buttons can't be customized. That's a shame as this trackball mouse is a clone of Logitech's excellent MX Ergo S trackball. As with the vertical mouse, the EM01 NL offers a choice of two Bluetooth pairings but also comes with a USB-A wireless dongle for connecting via 2.4GHz. Using the third button behind the scroll wheel you can switch between any connected devices such as a computer, tablet or laptop. An unusual feature with this mouse trackball is its clickable base plate, which can place the mouse at a 20-degree angle, turning it on its side slightly to make it a little bit closer to a vertical mouse. It's a useful feature and worth experimenting with to see if it helps should you have a problem like RSI. The EM01 NL includes a built-in 900mAh lithium battery and a full charge will last for a month of average use. The resolution of the EM01 NL's sensor can also be altered adn there is a choice of five resolutions: 200, 400, 800, 1,200 and 1,600 DPI for adjusting the cursor's sensitivity. A trackball mouse can be particularly useful if, like me, you have a cramped desk and don't have enough room to push your mouse all over the place. A trackball lets the user leave the mouse in one place and the cursor is then manipulated by moving the trackball with the thumb. One small note for those opting to use a trackball: every now and again, you need to pop out the tracking ball and clean fluff and dust off the tracking sensors inside the mouse. You'll know when it's time to de-fluff as the cursor won't be as responsive and may start juddering across the screen. The ProtoArc EN11 NL vertical mouse is available now from ProtoArc and Amazon and costs $26.99 / £34.42 / €17,27. The ProtoArc EM01 NL Trackball Mouse is also shipping now and available from Amazon priced at $44.99 / £46.99 / €54,99.
Health Line
04-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Foods to Eat or Avoid If You Have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Key takeaways As inflammation plays a role in carpal tunnel syndrome, certain foods can either worsen or improve symptoms by affecting inflammation in the body. Foods that may help manage carpal tunnel syndrome include those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins B6 and B12, and turmeric. Foods to avoid with carpal tunnel syndrome include those high in refined starches and sugars and saturated and trans fats. It is also best to avoid salty and fried foods. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful condition caused by swelling and inflammation in the wrist and tendons of the fingers that surround the median nerve. When the swollen tendons squeeze or compress the median nerve, it causes pain, tingling, and numbness. Carpal tunnel syndrome is sometimes referred to as a repetitive motion syndrome. Foods and supplements that alleviate inflammation may benefit this condition. In some instances, the right type of diet may alleviate symptoms enough so that other medical treatments are not needed. In other instances, it may be a beneficial addition to medical treatment. Certain foods may also exacerbate this condition, by furthering inflammation in the body. Read on to learn about the foods and supplements that help or hurt carpal tunnel syndrome. Foods to avoid with carpal tunnel syndrome Carpal tunnel syndrome has a number of known causes. These include: genetic predisposition history of repetitive wrist movements, such as typing or machine work obesity pregnancy autoimmune disorders Inflammation also plays a central role in the pain-related symptoms caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. Inflammation is a natural process in the body that helps protect you from injury and infection. However, chronic inflammation has been linked to: heart disease diabetes cancer A diet high in processed foods may increase levels of pro-inflammatory proteins, called cytokines. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFa) is a cytokine that has been specifically linked to carpal tunnel pain. Research shows that diets rich in processed foods may increase inflammatory proteins, like TNFa. Foods that promote inflammation may make carpal tunnel syndrome worse. These include: Refined starches and sugars Refined starches are also referred to as simple carbohydrates, or simply, 'bad carbs.' They include grains that have been stripped of fiber, nutrients, and bran. They also include desserts and sodas. Refined starches and sugars include: sugary breakfast cereals white bread white flour regular pasta white rice ice cream cake muffins cookies candy Foods high in saturated fat and trans fat Many refined carbohydrates are also high in saturated or trans fat. These include desserts such as pie and cake. Other foods high in saturated and trans fat include: beef, pork, and processed luncheon meats, including bologna margarine microwave popcorn cake icing Fried food Fried foods are often high in trans fat and salt. They include many fast foods, such as French fries, fried chicken, and tacos. Salty food Since salt can cause water retention, it may worsen swelling and pressure on the median nerve. Avoid foods that are high in salt, including processed, packaged foods. Also avoid adding table salt to meals. Alcohol A too-heavy intake of alcoholic beverages can raise inflammation levels in the body. A 2018 study found that long-term, excessive drinking could increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Foods that are beneficial for carpal tunnel syndrome Foods that reduce inflammation have been shown in studies to be beneficial to health and may support a reduction in carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. They include: Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and are neuroprotective. A small 2020 study found that omega-3 fatty acids reduced numbness and pain caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids include: fish oil coldwater fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel, and sardines Antioxidants Foods high in antioxidants can reduce inflammation and may help alleviate the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. They include: berries, including blueberries, strawberries, and goji berries spinach and other dark leafy greens citrus fruits like oranges and lemons red bell peppers and other colorful vegetables herbs and spices like parsley and turmeric walnuts, pistachios, and other nuts fatty fish like salmon Foods high in vitamin B6 Vitamin B6 supplementation is a controversial treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. It's sometimes recommended by healthcare providers because it's optimal for overall health, plus it may help reduce carpal tunnel symptoms. It's not completely clear how B6 works for this condition. One possible explanation is that it acts as an analgesic, by raising the pain threshold of people with carpal tunnel syndrome. Foods high in B6 include: salmon pork poultry (chicken and turkey) bananas soybeans wheat germ spinach chickpeas potatoes Foods high in vitamin B12 Vitamin B12 supplementation may be beneficial for reducing the effects of nerve damage and relieving pain. Eating a diet high in this nutrient may also be beneficial. Foods high in vitamin B12 include: clams liver salmon tuna eggs trout Turmeric Turmeric is a spice that contains curcumin, which has been found to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects for peripheral nerves. In addition to scientific data, users of turmeric say it's beneficial for reducing the inflammation associated with carpal tunnel syndrome and with other conditions, including arthritis. If you decide to try turmeric, make sure to use it with black pepper. The pepper increases the bioavailability of curcumin, increasing its effectiveness. You can also drink turmeric tea. Supplements that may relieve symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome If your diet is lacking in the vitamins and nutrients found in the foods listed above, you may benefit from taking them as supplements. They include: vitamins B12 and B6 fish oil capsules, which are high in omega-3 fatty acid and antioxidants turmeric or curcumin In addition, there are supplements that may be beneficial to take, as the nutrients are hard to get through diet alone. They include: Alpha-lipoic acid. Alpha-lipoic acid has neuroprotective properties and has been shown to reduce carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. It's found in some foods, such as spinach and organ meat, but in very small amounts. Capsaicin. This compound is found in hot red peppers. It has been shown to have pain-relieving properties. Other ways to reduce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome Home remedies for carpal tunnel syndrome may be useful for pain relief and for alleviating swelling. They include: oral over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication topical steroidal creams topical capsaicin creams wearing a wrist brace or splint reducing repetitive motion activities that require flexing of the wrist. These include typing, using a computer mouse, handwriting, and working a cash register not falling asleep with your wrists held in a bent position massage physical therapy When to seek medical help Carpal tunnel syndrome can be painful and debilitating. Since it can occur in both wrists, it may significantly reduce your ability to participate in daily activities. If at-home treatments and dietary changes don't help, talk with a healthcare provider. In some instances, acupuncture may be beneficial for alleviating this condition and reducing pain. You may also wish to consider medical treatments, such as cortisone injections. Surgical solutions for carpal tunnel syndrome may be highly beneficial.
Health Line
04-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
What Does It Feel Like to Have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Key takeaways Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, cramping, burning, and pain. It can affect the hand, wrist, and arm. Carpal tunnel syndrome can make it difficult to grasp small objects or perform fine tasks such as buttoning up a shirt. The condition can also cause hand weakness and difficulty distinguishing between hot and cold. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the hand, wrist, and arm. It happens when the median nerve gets compressed, or squeezed, at the wrist. The median nerve is a large nerve running from the palm to the upper arm. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the palm side of the wrist. It houses the median nerve and flexor tendons, which help you bend your fingers and thumb. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be very painful and sometimes causes unusual sensations. If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome tends to worsen and can lead to permanent damage of the median nerve. Here, we go over what it feels like to have carpal tunnel syndrome and when it's time to give your doctor a call. What does carpal tunnel pain feel like? Sensations of carpal tunnel syndrome usually come on gradually. Most people first notice it at night when they're trying to sleep. Eventually, it spills into the daytime with growing intensity and persistence. What does carpal tunnel feel like in your hand? Symptoms in your fingers and thumb may come and go at first. As the condition worsens, it becomes harder to ignore. Sensations in the hand may include: numbness tingling, feeling 'pins and needles' burning pain, intermittent shooting pains cramping morning stiffness feeling like your fingers are swollen, even though they're not coldness Symptoms typically show up only on the side of the ring finger closest to the middle finger, but symptoms can also affect other fingers. What does carpal tunnel feel like in your wrist? You may feel shooting pain from your fingers and thumb that radiates up through your wrist. You might also experience numbness, tingling, and burning sensations around your wrist. What does carpal tunnel feel like in your arm? Carpal tunnel syndrome mostly affects the hand and wrist. However, pain, aches, and other sensations can travel up your arm toward your shoulder. Some people develop burning, shooting pains in the elbow, but they are not as common. Other symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome Pain and other unpleasant sensations in the hand, wrist, and arm are the main symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Other signs that you may have carpal tunnel syndrome are: a strong desire to shake out your wrist for relief noticeable hand weakness and clumsiness difficulty grasping small objects trouble with fine movements like buttoning your shirt or tying your shoelaces trouble with tasks like using a phone or keyboard, or driving difficulty distinguishing the difference between hot and cold by touch lack of awareness of where your hand is in space loss of muscle tissue (muscle atrophy) People with carpal tunnel syndrome often have poor sleep quality because symptoms may be worse at night. Conditions with symptoms similar to carpal tunnel syndrome Other conditions, including different types of nerve compression, can look like carpal tunnel syndrome. Some of these are: Arthritis. Arthritis of the wrist can cause many of the same symptoms. One key difference is that arthritis may cause visible swelling and redness. Cubital tunnel syndrome. Also called ulnar tunnel syndrome, this condition is due to compression, or squeezing, of the ulnar nerve in the elbow. Symptoms are more likely to affect the pinkie, ring finger, and inside of the hand. Pronator syndrome. Pronator syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve in the arm is compressed. Pain is typically felt in the arm but can extend to the palm, making it difficult to make the 'OK' sign. Radial tunnel syndrome. Radial tunnel syndrome is due to compression of the radial nerve, which runs from the neck through the arm. It rarely causes the numbness or tingling of carpal tunnel syndrome. Pain is more likely to occur in the forearm or back of the hand. Tendonitis. Tendonitis of the wrist is due to inflammation of the tendons. Unlike carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis may cause swelling, and the pain tends to improve with rest. When to see a doctor Consider making an appointment to see a primary care physician if you have numbness, weakness, or pain of the hand, wrist, or arm that interferes with normal activities or keeps you awake at night. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow or stop conditions from worsening. A doctor can recommend exercises and home remedies to care for your condition. A doctor can also help you treat it before you develop permanent nerve or muscle damage. Takeaway Carpal tunnel syndrome is due to compression of the median nerve. It causes symptoms in the hand, wrist, and arm. These symptoms include shooting pains, numbness, and tingling. Although symptoms can be mild at first, carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive condition, which means it gets worse over time. Without treatment, it can lead to permanent nerve and muscle damage.
