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A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Walla Walla, WA

I started dropping things every once in a while. It’s been getting worse. Last Saturday I started getting tingling in both hands and my wrists are hurting. I’ve managed to drop dinner a couple nights ago and that was scary. Doc says it’s carpal tunnel syndrome and has me in braces to wear at night. Anyone else have this?

September 15, 2022
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around someone newly diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome who had been dropping things with increasing frequency and... Read more

Members rallied around someone newly diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome who had been dropping things with increasing frequency and experiencing pain and tingling in both hands. Several members shared their own experiences with carpal tunnel surgery, emphasizing the importance of not waiting too long to avoid permanent nerve damage, while others offered practical strategies like wearing braces consistently, doing wrist stretches and rotations, using compression sleeves, holding items closer to the body, and seeking referrals to specialists for custom bracing. A recurring theme was the frustration and fear of losing grip strength in everyday tasks like cooking or holding a coffee cup, balanced with hope that treatments like prednisone tapers, night braces, and ultimately surgery can bring meaningful relief.

A myRAteam Member

Hi Dawnmichelle! I do not have carpal tunnel, yet, I drop things, too. I've learned to say "hold it" while I'm carrying something. That helps 95% of the time. My husband had carpet tunnel surgery and he no longer drops things.

Hoping you get relief.

Marion :)

September 15, 2022
A myRAteam Member

The braces help but only if you wear them. I didn't wear mine when it really started and well I'm very clumsy. Try doing some exercises for your wrists like turning your hands in a counterclockwise direction for 10 reps then switching clockwise for 10 reps. If you can bend your hand back, stretch out wrist by holding your hand back, just don't push so far that it hurts. You can buy compression sleeves that are for your wrists. The ones I have are wonderful, however the company that sold them went out of business. I've found some on Amazon but haven't tried them. If you buy some just make sure to use a company that has a size guide.
You might also get a referral to an orthopedic. They can help you with custom braces to wear during the night and day that will fit you much better.
I hope this helps.
Have a good night!

September 20, 2022
A myRAteam Member

My prednisone taper is starting to kick in thankfully😊

September 18, 2022
A myRAteam Member

I have it.I drop everything!I drop plastic cups, stuff that isnt even heavy. People ask me how did I do that?It"s hard to start losing your grasp and strength especially when you you enjoy cooking and bathing.

September 15, 2022 (edited)
A myRAteam Member

I had carpal tunnel surgery done but I waited to long and the nerves were severely damaged and could not get all the feeling back in my fingertips. My advice is not to wait like I did and get them fixed as soon as possible. Good luck with your surgery. Sending Hugs and Prayers 🙏🙏😇

September 15, 2022

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