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The first sign of trouble may be pain, numbness, of tingling in the wrists, hands, and fingers. The pain increases if you hold your hand in one position too long, and your grip becomes weaker.
Your problem may be carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition caused by too much pressure on the median nerve in your wrist.
Preventing and treating this painful condition will be the subject of the next Women's Center brown bag lunch program. It's scheduled Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 12 noon in the main lobby of Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge (MMC). Leigh Johnson, an accomplished therapist at Methodist Physical Therapy in Oak Ridge, will be the guest speaker.
The causes of carpal tunnel syndrome include wear and tear on the wrist due to aging or repetitive hand movements; bone dislocation, fractures, and arthritis; and fluid retention in the wrist.
Johnson will explain ways to prevent the condition and suggest exercises for strengthening your hand and arm muscles. She will also discuss the importance of an early diagnosis and look at treatment options, which include splints, medication, and surgery.
An Oak Ridge native, Johnson graduated from Eastern Kentucky University and completed her internship at Baptist Hospital in Knoxville and Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. Before joining Methodist Physical Therapy, she worked as an occupational therapist at Hale Nani Rehab and Nursing Home in Hawaii. Her special interests include treating neurological, orthopedic, and hand disabilities.
The Women's Center brown bag lunch series is open to everyone. Bring your meal and enjoy the free beverages that will be provided.
For more information, call Women's Center director Flavia Hage at 481-1828.