wrist pain from typing

Why do I have wrist pain from typing?

Do you use a computer all day for work? Do you have a laptop you use for notes in class and for homework? Do you play a lot of games on your PC? No matter what it is that you’re doing on your computer, when you spend a lot of time typing, you’re vulnerable to wrist pain.

Wrist pain from typing can occur for a number of reasons. You should take a moment to learn about the potential causes of wrist pain to get an idea of what might be affecting you if you’re in pain. If you suspect you have any of the following conditions or aren’t sure what’s wrong, you should visit a health care professional for an assessment.

Conditions that can cause wrist pain from typing

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome — Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common reasons people experience wrist pain from typing. The carpal tunnel is a narrow tube that runs through your wrist and protects the nerves going into your hand. Frequent stress on your wrists, such as typing with poor posture, can irritate the carpal tunnel and cause painful inflammation to develop around the nerves.
  • Strain — Overexertion of the wrists in physical activity, such as sports or even from typing, can cause the muscles to overstretch or tear. Some mild forms of wrist strain might not be noticed until you try typing for a long period of time.
  • Tendinitis — Tendinitis is a form of irritation and inflammation that affects your tendons. This can develop in the tendons in your hands and wrists due to frequent use of the hands and wrists in repetitive activities, such as typing.
  • Arthritis — While less common than the other conditions above, arthritis does affect millions of people every year. It causes the cartilage in your joints to wear down, which is painful and makes it difficult to use the affected joint. Arthritis can affect the joints in your wrists, which can be felt when doing activities like typing.

Visit SOL Physical Therapy today for wrist pain treatment

Are you experiencing wrist pain every time you try to use your keyboard? Physical therapy can help. 

Our team at SOL Physical Therapy can examine your wrists and guide you through a personalized treatment that can help manage your condition. Contact our team today for more information about wrist pain from typing or to schedule an appointment. 

About the author

Sports + Orthopedic Leaders Physical Therapy & Performance Training serves the communities of Oakland, Alameda, Berkeley, Walnut Creek, Orinda, San Francisco and beyond. SOLPT’s award winning team of Physical Therapists, Performance Coaches and movement experts has helped thousands reach their rehabilitation and performance goals to move beyond pain. We're committed to helping anyone of any fitness level move effectively and more powerfully for a lifetime. We offer rehabilitation and performance services to all populations, with specialties in Sports Rehabilitation, Active Release Techniques, and Manual Therapy Techniques plus Personal and Small Group Training, Sport Clinics and Wellness Services.

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