those of you with hand pain, carpal tunnel, tendinitis
Posted By: related to typing...? sm on 2006-01-31
In Reply to:
How long had you been in the business before the onset of the symptoms, how fast did they progress, and what steps did you take to keep the symptoms at bay, without surgery. Even those who have had surgery, you may reply whether or not it helped.
For me, my symptoms began after seven years, just aching. I then switched keyboards to split. That worked for a few months, then the joint pains in fingers. I typed softer, really concentrated on not BANGING the keys out. Those two things helped another six months. Last year about this time, pain again caught up. I got splints..started B6, magnesium, muscle relaxers, took sugar and pasta out of diet (most), and coffee, carpal tunnel exercises. If I deviate off this diet for even one day, I get the inflammation in the wrists. The night splint worked for exactly one year. Here we are, i'm now on the same boring diet, and have resorted to wearing the splints during the day as well. I believe this is my last year as an MT. I need to get a dif job and do this part time or find an editing job which seems impossible.
Could some of you share your time lines so I know how severe mine is in comparison? Also anything I have not tried, if you could share. Thanks. 
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Thanks! At least I don't have carpal tunnel (yet)! nm
nm
Carpal tunnel
I had carpal tunnel surgery about 10 years ago in Nashville, the chief of ortho told me I would never be able to transcribe again - went back to work transcribing 10 days later and have been transcribing every since without problems.
carpal tunnel
My wrists were just starting to hurt after almost 8 years of transcribing and I was thinking oh no, not surgery. I bought a pair of little stretchy "gloves" with the fingers cut out and an adjustable strap that goes around the wrist at Walmart for about $8.00 and they have really helped. Found them in the section where they have assorted splints and braces.
Carpal tunnel
I just had the carpal tunnel release done. It was quick, relatively painless and I was able to work again almost immediately. Before considering a complete career overhaul, consider having the CT release surgery.
Carpal Tunnel
I was having terrible symptoms of wrist pain, hand pain, forearm and shoulder pain. A couple of years ago I switched to an ergonomic keyboard and the pain went away. It took me about a week to get used to the keyboard, but it was well worth it. The only problem is that now I can't type on a regular keyboard. My friend, who has been an MT for 20+ years and was about ready to retire due to the pain, did the same and it helped her also. There are a lot of ergonomic keyboards on the market, but my favorite is the Microsoft Natural. Hope this helps.
Carpal tunnel
Have been doing this for 20+ years and I had more problems when working as an Admin Assistant for department heads at a hospital. In fact had CT surgery when working as a secretary and answering phones for 12 social workers. Since I have been doing this, have not had any problems except for that which comes with older age. I do get up and move about, have a movable keyboard rest and work in several positions but type up to 10 hours a day sometimes and no problems. I do walk, exercise and do yoga and take time for myself and feel that helps.
Carpal Tunnel
I began experiencing problems with carpal tunnel about 3 or 4 months ago. It wasn't so much during the day that I hurt. My first symptom was that I was waking up at night with my hands having numbness with a sharp tingling sensation. My thumb, and first two fingers were slightly numb during the day, but not enough that I really noticed it very much.
I went to the doctor for the pain that I was having at night because I thought that I had something wrong with my circulation.
His advice to me was to wear supportive wrist braces at night--and only at night--to keep me from bending my wrists while I sleep (which is what most people do, I guess). He said that I had inflammation of my carpal tunnel due to the amount of time that I spent on my keyboard (though I blame ASR for the necessary repetitive motions back and forth between the arrow keys and 'home row'). However, wearing a brace during the day would only cause my handsd to have to move in 'unnatural' ways and would only make the problem worse. He said that I needed to keep my wrists straight while I slept at night, as this would be when my wrists would receive their best 'healing time.' He also prescribed daily NSAIDs.
I noticed a difference after just one night!! I still had to wear the braces for about a month to completely get rid of the symptoms, but I am currently symptom-free!!
I can't say anything about how to relieve exhaustion WHILE ACTUALLY TYPING. I mean, the best thing to do is to take frequent breaks--but if you can't, then you can't!
I fortunately now have an account that has no ASR and allows me to work for a couple hours in the morning, a few hours in the afternoon, and a coulple of hours in the evening. This breaks up the monotony and gives my hands a break.
carpal tunnel
I never had the surgery itself, but I worked with a coworker when I was in-house who had both hands done, but not at the same time. She was back to work within a couple of days. She did find that an "ergonically correct" keyboard (hope spelling is correct)was helpful. It took her a while to get used to it, but it really helped her.
The dreaded carpal tunnel
My doctor (neurosurgeon) thinks I need carpal tunnel surgery. I went to him for back pain and during neuro checks, he said my thumbs were "dead." He is sending me for an EMG. The only thing I have noticed is that I wake up in the night with "numb wrists." I don't have any finger/hand symptoms at all. I have always knocked on wood when anybody said "carpal tunnel."
Has anybody out there had carpal tunnel surgery? And how did it turn out? BTW, I am 51 and have been an MT since 1984.
carpal tunnel syndrome...nm
yes, CTS, (carpal tunnel) sorry guys
Don't you worry about getting carpal tunnel
or worse yet a blood clot from all that sitting? I used to work those kinds of hours about 8 years ago when we were swamped and they constantly asked us to put in more time. Now, I am suffering the consequences. I was diagnosed with RSD, repetitive stress disorder. My forearms start to ache and my neck and shoulders burn like heck. I messed myself up good so now can only work about 4 hours straight and then have to take a big break. Sure, it's possibe, but it will take its toll eventually.
well at least im not alone. its probably sign of carpal tunnel,..
something to do with blood flow or something. its stinks and it hurts. i run my hands under hot burning water when i just cant take it any more.
Carpal tunnel--what works for me
1. Vitamin B6,50 mg a day. No more than 50 mg per day, as per my neurologist. (i.e. if you take more than that, you can burn the nerves and cause pain). I have taken B-6 50mg a day, more or less, for 10+ years.
2. Watch what program you are typing on. I have much less problem with Microsoft Word 97, no experience with newer versions of Word, BUT, WP5.1 and other programs like ChartScript really, really caused MAJOR CT symptoms after even a week. So, I'm sticking with Word for now.
3. Do the exercise where you really stretch the wrist back (up) a long way. Seems to help. You can search Google for other exercises.
The B6 and being on Word instead of Word Perfect have really helped me. If I was still on Word Perfect, I don't know if I'd still be doing this. Hope you get help. I had one hand operated on 16 years ago by an excellent orthopod, and have never had to have the other one done.
CARPAL TUNNEL SYMPTOMS..sm
Is it possible for carpal tunnel syndrome to cause a slight tingling feeling in the face as well as the arms and hands? I have had just the slightest of tingling in my face for the last two weeks. No other symptoms at all...just a slight tingling. I have also had, for a longer period of time, pins and needles in both arms, more on the right. I've been a steady MT for about 14 years, and I'm wondering if it's catching up with me? I sorta ruled out a stroke since I figured I'd be dead by now and there are no other symptoms! Any advice/help is greatly appreciated.
you are confusing RSI with carpal tunnel
I'm not having a problem with my wrists. It's all the tendons in my fingers. Funny thing, I posted the message after having gone to Best Buy and clickey-clacking through all their keyboards. They are all stiff too. I am looking for something that you can just barely touch the keys so my tendons aren't so strained.
Carpal tunnel surgery??
Has anyone had the surgery on both hands? I just got done with the left hand and now will have the right hand done next week. Just wondering if you are right handed if that hand takes longer to heal. My left healed enough for me to type in about three weeks. I am hoping my right does too. I want to change companies, but cannot really apply for any jobs or even test if I do not know when I can start.
Thanks for any help. I am new here and it has been a wealth of info for me.
right carpal tunnel surgery - sm
I had my right carpal tunnel surgery about 10 years ago, and I would say I was fairly well healed by three weeks, but I took the whole six weeks that I was allowed as my job paid for the leave. IF I had to have it done now, I would have to go back to work at three weeks, cannot afford to stay out for six weeks. I found that squeezing a small rubber ball really helped. Good luck.
carpal tunnel symptoms
Well, it has finally happened. After 18 years of transcription, I'm starting to have symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. It has come on very suddenly, over the course of just a week. What I would like to know is if it is possible to turn this around, since it's just coming on? I have bought wrist supports, which help immensely, as does naproxen. I'm taking frequent breaks also. Can somebody give me hope that I won't end up needing surgery?
Symptom of carpal tunnel
one of the first things some people experience is excruciating elbow pain.
Carpal Tunnel recovery
Hey All,
I have been putting off surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome, and am wondering if any of you have had carpal tunnel surgery. How long was it before you could return to full-time transcription? How much releif did the surgery give? I also have developed a nodule on the inside of my right thumb,  right where it hits the spacebar and am having to hold my wrists up higher, like I am playing the piano, so I don't hit that spot on my thumb, and that makes my arms get numb faster than they usually do. What a mess!
I just can't keep going much longer, but I am scared of the financial loss of not working for any period of time
Thanks in advance for any advice you can give!
Tinnitus and carpal tunnel....
....plus a rotten and distrustful attitude toward the industry. Man, I'm so grateful to be old and retired!
Don't forget Carpal Tunnel Lane! nm
x
Wrist splints for carpal tunnel....
Go to your local drug store and purchase the best pair available and then wear them nightly faithfully. They help tremendously! (At least me, but everyone's different...) 
Carpal tunnel - know I saw post about vitamins...
or such that helped carpal tunnel without surgery or such. I am really having problems with my right wrist and it is majorly affecting my production. I do not want surgery or such, so was going to try vitamins or exercise first, any suggestions? Thanks.
Bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome.
I have the above, and neurologist told me that at all times to keep my wrists turned outwards and not bent inwards. This, along with wrist splints, have helped me tremendously and I have no need for surgical intervention.
Duh! Should be carpal tunnel. I really should proof before I hit send. nm
/
Burn-out, carpal tunnel, RSI, obesity,
blood clots in the legs, very high stress to produce fast and still 100% accuracy, years of training... we are waaaay underpaid.
what are the specific symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (sm)
Anyone know the specific symptoms of carpal tunnel? My right top of my arm feels sort of numb, like my forearm and my wrist aches. Also, my shoulder hurts. Is this typical for carpal tunnel or maybe something else?
does workman's compensation cover us for carpal tunnel? nm
x
Isolation, backaches, carpal tunnel, eyestrain sm
neck pain, sensitivity to noise, others think you're "nuts" because you know so much; yet they call you first for every little thing. On the positive side, being able to perform a task not many can, even doctors! Pride in profession, even though in today's world the pay stinks! It used to pay well, sorry for those who have wasted 2 years of college on something that is going the way of the horse and buggy. Sorry to be so negative, it's sad and I get even madder if anyone calls us "a dying breed" - we are special people. Love it, hate to see what's happening all around me - worth the pain to me though, not sorry about any of it. No flaming please, its sad enough, bordering on depression but refuse to go there, I take a nice hot bath instead and hope for the best.
My left thumb is the only "finger" I don't use, carpal tunnel is bad enough already.nm
x
And don't forget avoiding carpal tunnel syndrome! nm
......
so its not a common typing symptom? like carpal tunnel maybe? i am the only one here who suffers...
from chronic cold fingers? only while typing.
Probably something to do with carpal tunnel - The rare times mine acts up - sm
my thumbs get weird and trembly (?). I suspect that is your problem. Try changing your keyboard position, if you have it raised, make it flat, and visa versa. On my backup computer I have to have the keyboard raised but on my everyday PC I have it flat, and my CTS does not bother me now that I have my keyboards situated well for me.
...to prevent carpal tunnel and other repetative stress injury. nm
s
Carpel Tunnel pain
My wrists are acting up again. I'm looking for some ideas to help ease the pain. I've got the ergo keyboard and that helps some, but I can't type without having my wrists sitting on the wrist rest. Old habits die hard, I guess. I'm looking for some kind of brace or glove to wear while I type that is both comfortable and functional. Any ideas?
Hand Pain Help
You may also try taking magnesium and B6. Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxer, and the B6 works with the mag. Your problem is not exactly the same as mine was, but it could help you too.
Several years ago I developed carpel tunnel syndrome that got progressively worse over a several of months. Magnesium/B6 is what the doctor suggested, and within a week, my pain, numbness, tingling....all the symptoms, were completely resolved!!! I haven't worn a brace since! The dosage I took was 2600 mg of magnesium a day and 200 mg of B6. Adjust the dose as needed.
**Word of warning - if you develop stomach problems (to put it nicely), cut back your dose. Loose stools are a side effect of too much magnesium in your body, but it doesn't mean you can't take it...just cut back the dose until you get to a comfortable level. Good Luck!
Hand pain
Help! Both of my hands today are very painful. Sometimes I get the usual aches and pains in my hands and wrists from transcribing, but today they BOTH hurt so bad, especially between the index finger and thumb areas. They feel cramped and the pain is similar to when my shoulders get tense and you rub the knots. It's not a sharp pain, but a pretty intense pain when I put pressure on my hands, try to lift anything or touch/massage them or even stretch them. They're painful in the first four digits on both hands. Has anyone had this and/or have any clues what it is or what I can do to help them. TIA!
hand pain
Heating pad, ibuprofen, some kind of muscle rub with gloves over that, even if you have to cut the fingers out of a regular pair of gloves. Sometimes, the compression gloves make mine hurt worse. Also, a rigid wrist brace with thumb stabilizer helps overnight.
Hand Pain
Try using typing gloves or wrist supports. You buy them at Wal-Mart for about $20.00. Mueller's are the best ones I have found. Hope this helps!
Hand Pain
I have just gone back to transcribing after editing the last 4 years. I am having a problem with a very painful left hand. I work a secretary job during the day and transcribe for 4 hours at night. After 2 shifts, the pain starts. After the 3rd shift, I am in extreme pain. Does anyone know of anything that could help relieve this pain? Thanks in advance!
Hand Pain
Hi,
Hand pain is miserable. I tried transcription gloves and they help. An ergonomic keyboard is better than a standard keyboard. Once you get used to using one, you won't want to go back. One thing that truly helps me is a parafin wax treatment for my hands. I am also a guitarist so my hands work very hard. I got a home parafin wax setup, not too expensive. Bed, Bath, & Beyond used to carry them. Refill wax you can find at a beauty supply store. It wraps your hands in wonderful heat. Good to do on your night off. Good luck! 
any routines to keep CPS and hand pain at bay
Special diet or supplements, keyboads, positions, stretching or exercises, yoga, pain meds that work best, gloves, etc. My hands are just completely inflamed! Need help.
Hand pain question
My hands are absolutely killing me!! I've been tested for carpal tunnel about a year ago, and nothing was abnormal, but I've got the classic symptoms, the numbness, the tingling, the pain. I've got a good ergonomic setup and I've been transcribing for 6 years, so it's not like my hands aren't used to this. I get cramps and spasms in my wrist/fingers, and I'm wondering if anyone else has ever experienced this and if so, what have you done to help it? It's really cut my production down.
Thanks so much!
I used to get hand and wrist pain. I still do if I'm forced to use a standard keyboard.
I bought an ergonomic keyboard and use a telescoping keyboard drawer so I can prop the side of the board that's closest to me up in the air. That forces my wrists into the proper position and spreads my hands apart. It works wonders. I thought I would have to quit MT before ever really getting started, but I'm able to work pretty much fulltime now.
Hand pain - needing to cut back lines per week. Anyone else done this?
I have so much hand and wrist pain from all this typing. I only do 5000-6000 lines per week and that is torture. By the end of the week I have slowed down so badly it is ridiculous. I think I am going to have to cut way back before I trash my hands and wrists for good. Has anyone else had this problem and cut back on MT work? I'm trying to think of other jobs I could do for a few hours a day to make up the difference ($$)that don't involve typing.
tendinitis
Hi: Try icing your wrist, or Icy Hot, ibuprofen, elevate your key board, which should be at an angle, if no plastic tabs on the back (top of keyboard) try putting newspaper or magazine under it, wrist rest, and also they sell braces at drug stores just for this and they work well, wear at night too. Hope this info helps you. Been there, not any fun typing in pain or numbness, pins and needles.
tendinitis
Coincidentally, I just went to the doctor yesterday with the same problem. I had put myself on ibuprofen OTC around the clock for two weeks, and it didn't help. He diagnosed the same thing I did (tendinitis) and said I wasn't taking a high enough dose or for long enough. I won't suggest how much you should use, because I'm not a doctor but he did tell me to increase my dose and take it for a month.
Re: Tendinitis/PT
What helped me the most was physical therapy. They did (I forget what it was called) a low-current electrical wave machine on my forearm tendons, and I actually felt better THAT DAY. After a few weeks of PT I was good to go, until the next time they imposed 8 hours a week mandatory overtime on us. That KILLS me! So, I'm going to ask my doc for another round tomorrow. I think this much mandatory OT in a profession that requires such repetitive motion is just WRONG. It is killing our future ability to make a living.
I get tendinitis too occasionally. If I catch it in time, sm
can avoid the trip to the orthopedist for the x-rays, exam, shot of Marcaine and big bill (ugh). He gave me stretching exercises to do every hour or two, and I take 3-4 ibuprofen (actually, Advil Liquigels -- it may be just hype but I do believe they work faster) if I have a flare.
Good luck.
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