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I have carpal tunnel. Can I still crochet without hurting myself?

I know this is kind of a stupid question, but I started crocheting again, and today my carpal tunnel started acting up. I have seen the doctor about it yet, but I just wanted to know if anyone else had it and still did things like that without getting hurt.

Public Comments

1. I had it quite some time ago and was told that if it acted up you could do more damage to it than you have right now. Don't mess around but go to the doctor and get something done. You need that arm more than you need to crochet. Lots of luck and I'll be thinking about you.
2. Wear fingerless compression gloves when you crochet. Ice the wrist after you crochet. Acupuncture will help alleviate the pain. Ibuprophen helps decrease the pain and ease inflammation. You have to make your own medical decisions, but I would try non surgical therapies first and limit the time you crochet in any day.
3. The carpel tunnel is located at the base of the hand. Have you been diagnosed? It may not be CT. Only a doctor can give you the proper diagnosis and treatment possibilities. Pain is your body telling you to stop. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/carpal_tunnel/detail_carpal_tunnel.htm http://www.mayoclinic.org/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/
4. I have CT and crochet doesn't really affect it. If you feel any discomfort, stop immediately and rest your wrists. next time, try varying how you hold your hook. or even try crogheting with your opposite hand.
5. i started getting carpal tunnel after christmas when i was finishing up a christmas gift. So i bought a brace ($25) and wore it when i slept, i also crocheted with it on. it was an adjustment but it relieved the pain.
6. I have wrist problems as well, I have found that the "Susan Bates Bamboo Handle Crochet Hooks" have helped quite a bit. The compression gloves might help or you might check out the "Isotoner Therapeutic Gloves" they are about the same price as the compression gloves you find at the craft stores. Also, try to build up your time over a period of weeks instead of jumping into it. Good luck!