Managing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Naturally
11/25/2012
Carpal tunnel syndrome is an increasingly common side effect of modern life. Activities performed frequently or for extended periods that compress or irritate the median nerve (which runs from the forearm into the palm) can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. Computer use, painting, driving, sewing, assembly line work, some sports, use of certain tools, playing some instruments, and other activities may cause problems over time.
If you experience numbness or tingling in your fingers, occasional bouts of weakness in one or both hands, or radiating pain originating in your wrist, you might have carpal tunnel syndrome. The condition continues to get worse without intervention. Early recognition is essential to preventing permanent nerve damage and inhibited ability to use your hands.
Go Natural for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the go-to treatment for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome. While they ease pain and inflammation for a few hours, they do nothing to remedy the condition and they aren't safe for long-term use. They can cause ulcers, damage kidneys, prevent clotting, and have other harmful effects over time. Plus, they often cause stomach upset and other adverse effects. Then there's the long list of contraindications, including pregnancy, dozens of health conditions, and impending surgery.
For moderate to severe carpal tunnel syndrome, corticosteroids like prednisolone are often prescribed. These too reduce pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, they have lengthier lists of side effects and contraindications than NSAIDs and they're even less safe for prolonged use. One major concern is they suppress the immune system, leaving you highly susceptible to all sorts of infections.
Better to go the natural route. Natural remedies are just as good at reducing pain and inflammation. Acupuncture and other therapies are much safer short term and over the long haul, too. They also do more to beat the condition, addressing underlying causes and treating the body holistically, rather than just briefly suppressing symptoms.
Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome from Worsening
The first concern with carpal tunnel syndrome is stopping its progression. Identify activities that put stress on your hands and wrists. Sit up straight at the computer with the keyboard and mouse at elbow level and don't keep your wrists bent up or down. Avoid holding your wrists in a bent position during other activities, too. Limit the force you use when doing things with your hands; relax your grip and don't use your fingers more forcefully than necessary. Take frequent breaks during extended periods of actively using your hands.
Acupuncture to Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Acupuncture has clinically demonstrated its ability to manage carpal tunnel syndrome as effectively as prednisolone. It reduces localized swelling and inflammation, rapidly relieving discomfort and pain. But it also relieves pain and inflammation everywhere else. While carpal tunnel syndrome is fairly geographically limited, other body parts feel the effects of poor posture, repetitive motions, overexertion, and other contributing factors. Acupuncture even treats headaches, whether from physical dysfunction or stress. The therapy also addresses organ dysfunction and imbalances that contribute to and worsen carpal tunnel syndrome.
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