Recently, I saw a thread on Twitter where a bunch of professors were complaining about students using waivers in order to take notes on a laptop. It made me wince. Before I reached my early 20s, I’d already received multiple steroid injections into my hand/wrist and was on light muscle relaxants for my carpal tunnel syndrome.

I was reminded of all the pain I went through. Not only was I a college student and writer, but I also regularly played video games and crafted in my spare time. I still experience the pain associated with my carpal tunnel, but it’s nowhere near the extreme pain I used to experience.

I couldn’t help but wonder why. It took me a few minutes, but I realized all the changes I’ve made to relieve the tension in my carpal tunnel. I thought I’d share my tips here to help anyone else who may be experiencing the hell of carpal tunnel syndrome.

1. Make conscious decisions about how you hold things. Now, I realize you can’t not be aware of how you’re holding things when it causes extreme pain. Still, though, a little bit of forethought before you grab it, and it’ll save a lot of pain. One thing I’ve learned to do is to hold my phone with one hand flat on the back using a PopSocket. I’ll use my other hand to touch the screen while holding that hand flat, too.
2. Know the right tools. I can’t use just any pen or pencil that I find. Writing utensils need to have a thicker barrel. One pen that’s never let me down is Pilot’s Dr. Grip pen. Pencils are another story. You have to either find a mechanical one with a thicker body or use a multipen with pencil inserts. I love Uni multipen from JetPens!
3. Get the right equipment. Similar to pens and pencils, ergonomics is important in all aspects of your life. For instance, I use a removable ergonomic handle for my crochet hooks. I can’t tell you how much that’s helped. Try to find removable holders, grips, and other accessories to mitigate some issues. If you absolutely cannot find any (or they’re just too dang expensive) don’t be afraid to diy a solution. Clay, thermal plastics, layers of tape, and other materials can be used to craft a handle or grip. Just be careful about how you move your hands while crafting to prevent pain.
4. Hand stretches. Stopping to stretch or do hand exercises can help increase the amount of time you can work or help alleviate the pain while it’s still minor.
5. No tight bracelets or watches. This isn’t always something you think about until you’re hurting and can’t feel your hand.
6. Don’t be afraid to don some medical accessories. No one really wants to wear things like wrist splints or KT tape, but they help. Grab some in vibrant colors if you’re bored by it or grab some neutral colors if you want it to blend in.
7. Speak up if you need accommodations. Carpal tunnel pain is real and can be severe. It can damage your nerves. Don’t be afraid to tell your boss or professor if you need a little more time or have to use a laptop to take notes. Most people are understanding. Your boss/professor may require an official note from your doctor, but most will likely understand.

These are just a few tips to help manage your carpal tunnel syndrome. Hopefully a little bit of prevention can go towards saving some pain from your day.

If you have some tips for dealing with carpal tunnels issues, comment below and let me know!