Education

Understanding Mouse Wrist Syndrome: Causes and Solutions

Dr.Lopamudra 2024-08-27

Mouse Wrist Syndrome: The result of chronic repetitive stress on soft tissues. In today’s technology-driven world, around 80% of the workforce is occupied with desk jobs that involve extended periods of sitting. The hand is an extension of the brain, and constant stress puts the tendons and joints in your hand at risk for injury. Extended use of a computer mouse or keyboard without sufficient breaks can strain the connective tissues and tendons, resulting in pain and discomfort. Mild cases often improve over time, but the underlying condition persists, leading to chronic degenerative changes. These tiny injuries, known as micro traumas caused by repetitive abnormal forces, can lead to the degeneration of muscles and tendons. This condition is referred to as Mouse Wrist Syndrome. Chronic cases can result in severe, irreversible damage. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further deterioration.

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Causes:

Microtraumas:

These are minor tears in the connective tissue layers resulting from the repeated absorption of forces in a particular direction over a prolonged period.

Lack of ergonomics:

Insufficiently designed workstations, poor positioning, and improper angling during work can create abnormal forces on the body’s soft tissues. Any previous trauma or injury to the wrist or hand can amplify the effects of current working practices.

Symptoms:

Persistent pain and tenderness in the palmar areas of the wrist. Reduced grip strength. Exhaustion/ fatigue. In chronic cases, it can lead to neural symptoms such as tingling and numbness, as well as swelling and stiffness. Patients may experience stiffness and significant restriction of the hand both during work and at rest.

Diagnosis of Mouse wrist syndrome:

A general practitioner or physiotherapist can evaluate, diagnose, and treat the condition. In severe cases, medical investigations such as X-rays and wrist ultrasounds may be needed to assess the underlying structures.

Treatment and management of the Mouse Wrist Syndrome:

Early intervention can prevent permanent damage to the nerves or muscle tissues. Medical interventions include prescribing painkillers and applying local treatments. Conservative management is essential for both resolving the issue and preventing its recurrence. It is essential to ergonomically redesign the workplace and use ergonomic mice and mouse pads. It’s crucial to identify pain triggers associated with workstation furniture and to switch to ergonomic chairs and appropriate visual display units. During acute stages, immobilization can be helpful. Wrist supports reduce the risk of reinjury, provide comfort, offer graded compression, and facilitate faster healing by maintaining the proper alignment of structures. Physical therapy can address mouse wrist syndrome through graded muscle training techniques designed to rebuild muscle strength. Proprioceptive exercises help enhance stability and prevent recurrence. Additionally, effective stretching techniques can ease tightened structures, boost blood circulation, and support quicker healing. Electrotherapeutic modalities, such as therapeutic ultrasound, can target pain sources and eliminate metabolic byproducts from the affected area’s specific location. “He who works with his hands is a labourer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist.”
― Saint Francis of Assisi.