Monona Rossol on sat 8 mar 97
Steve Williams wrote:
> Well it's official. That numb tingley feeling in my hand and fingers is
> Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. My orthopedist gave me a shot of Cortisone in my
> wrist but he doesn't think it will fix the problem and expects I'll need
> surgery.
> Needless to say I don't want to have surgery but it may be necessary. I'm
> sure not getting much done this way. Anyway, to the point. Has anyone on
> the list had this surgery? If so, What was your experience?
> Has anyone on the list managed to avoid this surgery? If so, How? Well I've
> got to go finish packing for the show this weekend. Thanks in advance.<
I've got files full of inquiries, horror stories, technical papers, and
other data collected since the early 80's about carpel tunnel and other
repetitive strain injuries. As far as I'm concerned, it all boils down to
the following advice:
Read about the problem. Learn how your hands and wrists work and where the
problem is. Use this knowledge to re-examine the way you work. Look hard at
how you wedge, throw, and do other tasks. Can you find more comfortable
ways to do these jobs? Can you eliminate some of the tasks by having others
do them or purchasing pre-mixed stuff? Can you alter your habits to take
short rest periods during strenuous tasks? Try all these and more first.
If you still can't get relief, then find the best surgeon you can to do the
job. Get one who does this operation a lot.
It is my opinion that in most cases the surgery is effective. However, as
with all operations, there are those for whom the problems recur or even
become worse. Take this risk only after other alternatives have been
exhausted.
Monona Rossol, industrial hygienist
Arts, Crafts and Theater Safety
181 Thompson St., # 23
NYC 10012-2586 212/777-0062
http://www.caseweb.com/acts/
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