Can wrist straps cause Carpal Tunnel?

[oculus]

Hello out there,

I was reading a kiting book over the weekend and I came to a section on how wrist straps can cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

The book was published in 1988, entitled Stunt Kites, ed. by David Gomberg.

Do all straps have this problem? How can I use my straps without causing damage to my wrists?

How common is this problem? Is is better to use handles?

Amy

[John Barresi]

This was a popular topic about 10 years ago... To be honest, I haven't heard anything about it in years.

I've been using straps for eons, and have never run into this problem... However, I used the computer all the time and don't appear to be prone to getting Carpal Tunnel.

Obviously, the problem would mainly occur if you were flying a lot with tons of pull on the kite... If there is little stress on your wrist (light pull), then it would be unlikely.

I would just fly what you like, and observe the condition of your wrists... If stiffness or pain starts, then switch... Or, switch back and forth between straps and handles out of general prinicple.

[Penny Lingenfelter]

repetative motion is said to cause it. At one time they said computers, then they said not. Sewers, jewlery setters, people who use small motor skills alot tend to get it even more then people on the computer.

If you are prone to it, exercise does help. Not overdueing. And quads handles the choice of long throws or super ultra light handles help to keep your wrist movement down.

I do baby my wrist, massage and pressure point. So far I've kept my pain to a minimum.

Does it cause it? Good question.

Can it compound an existing problem? Another good question.

John is right.. just watch what your doing. It might even be a form of therapy if done right. If you have concerns ask your doctor, see what he says. So far kite flying has been very healthy for me over all.

BB

Penny

[hvkmike]

I have heard of a few wrist injuries,but usually from someone trying to buggy without a harness.

I'd think that straps would help reduce the grip strenghth needed to fly.Which is one cause of wrist strains.

Good Winds

Mike

[Penny Lingenfelter]

Serious injuries Mike?

I don't want pain.

BB

Penny

[Belassis]

I damaged my right wrist in 1985, and it just wouldn't heal correctly. So in 1986 I ended up having to have the "pezaform" (SP) bone removed from my right wrist before it would heal like it should. 18 years later and kite flying has never bothered the wrist in any way. I babied the wrist for a while, but have gone on to fly a stacked pair of Steve Shapson's original "Force 10 deltas" (16 feet wide) without any problems.

Charly