Natural Treatments For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) That Really Do Help!
Natural treatments for carpal tunnel function. But they do take some time and commitment. If you want to…
Would you like some history on CTS?
Before we talk about natural treatments for carpal tunnel, it’s important to remember that carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is not uncommon. You estimate that the risk of this disease is about 10%. It usually starts between the ages of 30 and 60. It gets worse if left untreated as it is ‘progressive’.
The first symptom of CTS is usually a tingling sensation in the hand at night, followed by tingling and loss of grip during the day. You may feel pain even if your fingers are not swollen. Eventually, you will feel weakness and pain at the base of your thumb, when you extend your arm, and in your shoulder.
Is CTS an injury or a permanent condition?
It is both. So the best treatment for carpal tunnel can help resolve the physical damage that has become a permanent health problem.
Many doctors describe CTS as an “injury” to the carpal bones, which are made up of eight small bones (called the carpal bones) that create a “hole” filled with muscles and nerves that control finger movement. Repetitive activities of the wrist can strain these muscles and pinch the nerves. Post-traumatic stress disorder causes CTS.
- Therefore, people who work in front of a computer keyboard every day are especially at risk.
- Drummers, painters and conductors are particularly subject to CTS.
- Assembly line workers who use heavy vibrating equipment may be targets of this situation.
- Water retention during pregnancy, obesity, tendinitis, bone spurs, rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetes also increase the risk.
What is the doctor’s advice?
For mild discomfort, most doctors recommend an experienced treatment for carpal tunnel.
- Take breaks from repetitive tasks. In other words, every 15 minutes, stop your wrists, wiggle your fingers, and stretch your arms. Gently move your wrists to improve blood flow.
- Also try over-the-counter (OTC) antibiotics. Aspirin and ibuprofen may help reduce vein pain.
- Wear the wrist brace at night. Most of us sleep with our wrists slightly bent, which can put tension on the carpal tunnel area for hours. Braces, available at drugstores, can protect the wrist and provide relief for some people.
For more severe forms of CTS, doctors may recommend more aggressive treatment.
- First, they will prescribe corticosteroids or injections. This will reduce the swelling and pressure on the central nervous system.
- Finally, they will recommend surgery to reduce the size of the artery. Make 1 or 2 small incisions in the affected area and cut the ligaments to create more space around the pinched nerve.
- Or, you can choose carpal tunnel treatment
- Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) is a very popular treatment. Foods rich in B6 include sweet potatoes, avocados, brown rice, barley, bananas, and mangoes. However, high-quality foods (up to 100 mg twice daily) are easier to take and almost as good. (Since some people may need lower doses, consult your doctor before starting B6 therapy).
- Eating pineapple helps! Pineapple contains a protein-dissolving enzyme called bromelain, which helps reduce muscle inflammation.
- Research shows that chiropractic care can reduce CTS. A wrist, elbow, and back massage by a reputable therapist can help you feel better and rejuvenated.
- Arnica gel helps provide temporary relief. These homeopathic remedies can be purchased at better health stores. Boiron is a great brand and you can order online if you want.
- Pain relievers can also help. Choose products that contain menthol as an active ingredient, such as Premiere’s Pain Relief Spray or Roll-On. Menthol is one of the strongest pain relievers because it works quickly and lasts for up to an hour.
- Alternate hot and cold water. Soak your wrist in warm water for 3 minutes, then in cold water for 1 minute. Do this 3 times in a row up to 3 times a day.
- Pain Relief Patch is great. The medication patch is absorbed through the skin (bypassing the problem). The patch can also prevent stomach upset caused by aspirin and other over-the-counter medications. Be sure to dispose of these properly as they contain chemicals that are harmful to children and pets.