Monday, November 3, 2008

"Computer Wrists" Ginger Compress


For many of us who are office workers, the computer is an important tool for our daily work but it is also a health hazard. Improper usage of the keyboard and mouse could result in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome which is an injury associated with repetitive grasping and manipulating activities. If you have been having wrist pain and suspect that you might have carpal tunnel syndrome, it is important to get a professional diagnosis and treatment plan.

Meanwhile, you can try this warming compress to help relieve pain.

INGREDIENTS
1 piece fresh gingerroot
2 quarts boiling water
St. John’s wort oil

To make:
1. Grate fresh gingerroot and tie it in cheesecloth.
2. Put the ginger into the boiling water. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Cool to a warm but comfortable temperature.
To use:
1. If the skin on your hands and wrists is very sensitive, apply a think layer of St. John’s wort oil to the area around the wrist before you apply the compress.
2. Remove the cheesecloth with the gingerroot. Dip a clean hand towel into the ginger water. Wring out the excess liquid and apply the comfortably warm cloth to the tender wrist area.
3. Cover with a dry towel to insulate the heat.
4. Rewarm every 5 minutes, as desired.

Ginger is a natural circulatory stimulant and anti-inflammatory herb that has been used for centuries, both internally and externally, in folk medicine.

Adapted from Natural Hand Care, by Norma Pasekoff Weinberg

No comments: