Many people now spend long hours gaming on computers or smartphones,

and many develop carpal tunnel syndrome.

To help, I’ve put together some advice from the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s blog

on exercises to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome.

(Image source: Ministry of Health and Welfare blog)

According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the best way to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome

is to give your wrists plenty of rest by regularly repeating movements that relax and loosen them up.

The recommendation is to do each of the 6 movements above about 10 times every day,

so try to keep up the routine whenever you think of it.

(Image source: Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong)

The nerve gliding exercises recommended by Professor Yoo Seung-don of the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong

also look simple and easy to do, so they could be a good addition to the routine.

Your everyday habits also play an important part in protecting your wrists.

1. Open your hands wide frequently to reduce the stress on your wrists.

2. Avoid repetitive hand movements over long periods whenever possible (take regular breaks at work).

3. Avoid twisting cleaning rags or dishcloths to wring them out.

4. When gripping objects, use the strength of your whole arm rather than just your wrist.

5. If you tend to lie down or sleep with your wrist under your head, work on changing that habit.

6. Use a wrist rest when using a computer.

7. Use your smartphone with both hands rather than just one.

Following these tips can help keep your wrists healthy,

so if you’re a gamer, make them part of your regular routine.