It's All in the Wrist

Continued...

Try icing the wrist area to reduce fluid accumulation. A trial of anti-inflammatory medication and wearing rigid splints that keep the wrists from flexing can often control the problem.

Depending on the severity of symptoms and the aggravating activity wearing wrist splints at night may be enough to keep you symptom-free.

However, many experts feel that rest and 24-hour splinting for two or more weeks are needed to prevent permanent nerve damage.

Physical therapy to learn proper stretching techniques and to strengthen muscles is also helpful. In severe cases, you may need steroid injections (for their anti-inflammatory effect) or surgery to decompress the tunnel.

Cycler's Palsy

"Handlebar" or cycler's palsy is a numbness in the last two fingers that results from pressure on the ulnar nerve in the wrist when the cyclist's hand rests on the handlebar. The firmness of the handlebar coupled with vibration from the road causes nerve compression when the wrist is pressed backward (dorsiflexed) for long periods of time.

Permanent nerve damage, like that resulting from nerve compression in carpal tunnel syndrome, can occur. Both inexperienced and long-distance cyclists are at risk.

To prevent this condition, make sure your bike fits you. If you lean too far forward, you place more pressure on your hands. You may also want to add extra padding to the handlebars and wear padded bike gloves. Horizontal handlebars are easier on the hands than drop handlebars.

You can also alternate your hand placement. Shake out your hands and stretch your forearm muscles every hour. If numbness develops, stop, rest and stretch. Try to ice your wrists for 10 minutes. If the numbness doesn't subside, ride in a different position, return home and elevate your hands.

Next, what can you do to prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

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Table of Contents

Foreword: Billie Jean King

Comments by Barb Harris
Editor in Chief,
Shape Magazine

General Health
Nutrition
Exercise
Common Medical Problems
Dental Health
Emergency!
Infectious Disease
Sexual Health
Emotional Well-Being
Eating Disorders
Alcohol & Other Drugs
Environmental Health
Prevention