What To Know
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and forearm.
- If you’re not interested in rock climbing or if you’re not able to do it, there are other ways to relieve CTS symptoms.
- Physical therapy can help to improve wrist flexibility and range of motion and strengthen the muscles in your hands and forearms.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and forearm. It’s caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in your wrist.
Rock climbing is a popular activity that involves using your hands and wrists to grip and pull yourself up. Some people believe that rock climbing can help to alleviate CTS symptoms, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
How Rock Climbing May Help CTS
There are a few ways that rock climbing may help to relieve CTS symptoms:
- Increased wrist flexibility: Rock climbing requires you to bend and extend your wrists in a variety of ways. This can help to improve wrist flexibility and range of motion, which may reduce pressure on the median nerve.
- Strengthened hand and forearm muscles: Rock climbing strengthens the muscles in your hands and forearms. This can help to improve grip strength and reduce the risk of developing CTS.
- Improved circulation: Rock climbing can help to improve circulation in your hands and forearms. This can help to reduce swelling and inflammation, which may also reduce CTS symptoms.
What the Research Says
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that rock climbing can help to alleviate CTS symptoms. However, there have been a few small studies that have looked at the effects of rock climbing on CTS.
One study found that rock climbing was associated with a significant reduction in pain and numbness in people with CTS. Another study found that rock climbing improved grip strength and wrist range of motion in people with CTS.
Is Rock Climbing Right for You?
If you’re considering rock climbing to help alleviate your CTS symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor first. Rock climbing is a strenuous activity that can put stress on your wrists and hands. If you have CTS, it’s important to make sure that you’re strong enough to handle the activity and that you’re not at risk of making your condition worse.
If you’re cleared to start rock climbing, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. Be sure to listen to your body and stop if you experience any pain or discomfort.
Other Ways to Relieve CTS Symptoms
If you’re not interested in rock climbing or if you’re not able to do it, there are other ways to relieve CTS symptoms:
- Wrist splints: Wrist splints can help to immobilize your wrist and reduce pressure on the median nerve.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve wrist flexibility and range of motion and strengthen the muscles in your hands and forearms.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve CTS symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can rock climbing make carpal tunnel worse?
A: Yes, rock climbing can make carpal tunnel worse if you’re not careful. Be sure to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop and consult with your doctor.
Q: What are the best exercises for carpal tunnel?
A: Some of the best exercises for carpal tunnel include wrist stretches, hand exercises, and forearm strengthening exercises.
Q: How long does it take to recover from carpal tunnel surgery?
A: Recovery from carpal tunnel surgery typically takes 6-8 weeks. However, it may take longer for full strength and sensation to return to your hand.
