The Emotional Toll of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
October 10th, 2011 | Published in RSI Stories | 3 Comments
When we talk about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, we’re usually most concerned about the physical symptoms and treatments, but there are other factors to consider as well, one’s we ignore at our peril.
Robert Vignoli offers an interesting point of view in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Pain Is Not Just Physical:
Though not part of a normal description of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, this crippling disorder has many emotional effects as well. Because of this disorder, many strong emotions may come up that one is not prepared to deal with. It is important to familiarize yourself with the common emotional upheavals so you can be prepared to deal with them.
Robert goes on to discuss some of the feelings Carpal Tunnel Syndrome sufferers might experience, which include:
- Feelings of uselessness
- Anxiety and fear of the future
- Loss of enjoyment in fun activities
- Serious depression
He ends with some solid advice: “Don’t let it get you down. Get help, and don’t forget that Carpal Tunnel Syndrome doesn’t always last forever. Early recognition and proper treatment is important to treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.”
Good topic, Robert!
October 10th, 2011 at 1:24 pm (#)
I really really agree. The psychological issues were soo much harder to deal with. Luckily I’m pain free since I left the IT business (2 years ago).
March 3rd, 2012 at 11:06 pm (#)
Do we have to leave the IT field? It’s like my strong point and I’ve invested so much into it
March 8th, 2012 at 3:05 am (#)
Emma, only you can decide.
I worked as a programmer full time. That didn’t work for me. A long time I tried find a part-time programmer jobb but didn’t. When I finally realized that I HAD TO change I was too worn out to make small adjustments so instead I took a year of before I could even think about getting a new job.
Now I sell skateboards and longboards part time. I’m also freelancing a little bit on the side. Trying to become a photographer. Most of the days I’m completely pain free. I have energy. I love my life.
If you start in time maybe you don’t have to make such huge changes as I did? Maybe adjust your role so you have less keyboard time?
Good luck. Hope you find your way.