Carpal tunnel syndrome is fairly common, especially amongst women (women’s hands and wrists are smaller). When there is pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, weakness, tingling and numbness can occur. The median nerve, as well as several tendons run to your hand through the carpal tunnel in your wrist. This nerve is responsible for the feelings, nerves and movement in all fingers except the pinky. Pressure on this median nerve is the main cause for carpal tunnel syndrome. This pressure is the result of swelling from a variety of different factors. The pain can be so severe that it can be felt all the way up the arm and into the shoulders. In most cases it is caused my repetitive motion such as, bending, twisting, playing instruments, typing, and other forms of manual labor. Symptoms typically start out light and infrequent, worsening over time. In the beginning, symptoms are mot commonly felt at night. When symptoms are treated at the onset, you are more likely to find permanent relief. If carpel tunnel syndrome is not treated in a timely fashion, it can result in permanent nerve damage. It may seem as though expensive doctors appointments, medications and even surgery are your only options, but there are a lot of different ways you can find natural relief from the pain and discomfort of carpal tunnel syndrome.
10 Natural Remedies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Stretching the fingers and wrists 3 times a day will will stretch out the carpal tunnel to allow the nerve to pass with ease. Here are 3 stretching exercises
2. Rest
If your job or hobbies are repetitive in nature, try taking a 5 minute break every hour you are performing the task.3. Ice and Elevation
Applying ice twice a day for 15 minutes reduces pain and swelling. Tip: A frozen bag of veggies works great in a pinch. Elevate the hand over the heart as you ice.
4. Wrist Splints
Wearing wrist splints help to keep your wrists straight and may relieve the pressure on the nerve. If work or tasks at home are repetitive in nature, it may be a good idea to wear a split to help protect your wrists. Wearing them at night while sleeping may also be preventative in pain the next day.
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5. Acupuncture
Many who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome have found acupuncture to be successful in relieving pain and inflammation radiating from the tendons.
6. Wet Cupping
Wet cupping is safe, when performed by an accredited acupuncturist. This is an ancient technique that involves glass cups applied to pressure points.
7. Yoga
A gentle yoga practice has been affective in pain relief and mobility in wrists.
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8. Ergonomics
Having ergonomic equipment for work can be very helpful and inexpensive option for pain relief. Look for items such as keyboards, mouse and desks that keep wrists and arms in a position that won’t trigger nerve pain and swelling.
Consider using an standing desk like this.
9. Self-Massage
When putting lotion on your hands gently massage your palms, forearms, wrists and fingers. Recommended twice a day for relief and prevention. Try using a soothing essential oil infused massage lotion.
Many have found relief from essential oils when applied to areas of pain. Learn more about essential oils here
Nutritional relief
- Eliminate all forms of refined sugar and gluten
- Take Supplements, B1, B6, and Magnesium
- Try adding healing herbs to you diet: cayenne, turmeric and St. John’s Wart
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