Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Acupuncture
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a medical condition that affects hand and fingers. It causes numbness, tingling feeling and pain. These sensations progress gradually and worsen during the night. Other symptoms include a thumb weakness and a dull pain in the thumb, the index finger, the middle finger, and half of the ring finger. But the tingling sometimes goes on outside the area.
Carpal tunnel syndrome takes place when the inflammation in the tunnel puts a strain on the nerve.
Research studies show acupuncture treats carpal tunnel syndrome. It is also useful in addressing its symptoms and causes. This alternative medicine is more effective than it is earlier thought.
A research study published by Brain shows acupuncture helps relieve pain for CTS sufferers. It helps reduce symptoms by altering the function of the brain. It also provides healing at the source of the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord.
According to the official estimate, 15% of the population has carpal tunnel syndrome.
Some kind of repetitive movements is responsible for CTS. They also include mislaying of fingers on a keyboard. The pressure on the median nerve causes the numbness and pain. This compression is sometimes called a pinched nerve.
The median nerve passes through the forearm up to the wrist called the carpal tunnel. The sensation of the thumb and the next two fingers are controlled by the median nerve.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is considered a progressive disease because of the symptoms progress in time. It starts with a simple weakness, then subsequently in capability to grip and form fist will be experienced.
How To Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
There are several treatment options available for CTS. These include surgery, anti-inflammatory injections, and forms of physical therapy that strengthen the area. The use of a wrist splint is also used to minimize the pressure on the nerve. And last but not the least, an acupuncture treatment that stands the test of time.
Acupuncture is part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that has been successful for treating a lot of illnesses and diseases.
Rehabilitate the Body’s Natural Balance:
It is very important to restore and maintain the normal balance to the body. And it is the main advantage of acupuncture. Insertion of fine needles under the skin along meridians can restore balance. Meridians are the pathways, which the physical energy passes. A combo of massage, exercise, herbal treats comprises the complete TCM approach.
Causes
The possible causes of CTS are obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, hormonal changes during pregnancy, or thyroid problems. Addressing the root cause of the ailment will restore the balance.
Acupuncture treatment targets the inactive blood and energy in the pericardium meridians, also known as heart constrictor. The treatment helps to normalize the flow when there is an interruption in the circulation around the wrist. The soft tissue swells up, and this can cause infection of the carpal tunnel.
It has been proven that even at the first visit, acupuncture provides relief to patients. A constant visit to acupuncture is needed to make sure of good circulation.
Other Treatment Options
– Adjust the way you use your hand. It helps lessen the pressure on the nerve.
– See to it to keep your wrist supported. It helps reduce pressure on the nerve.
– Wear wrist splints, especially at night. It helps relieve symptoms that prevent sleep.
– Do not overextend your wrist while typing. This is easier to do with a desktop rather than laptops.
– Take quick frequent breaks during the day. This is to avoid frost hand. It also soothes the nerves in the shoulder and neck.
– Ice your wrist. It may ease some of the pain. One study published in February 2015 show that Thermacare cold packs may be more effective for CTS than a low-level heat wrap. This can be done by holding the cold pack on your palm for 20 minutes. If you start seeing redness, take off the ice. That only means that you are holding it too long.
– Keep hour hands in a neutral position. That will reduce the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
– Stretch out your wrist and hands.
To do the stretching, place your forearm and palm on each wall. Your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle. Keep your feet on a drop in place while bringing your body forward. You should feel a slight stretch in your chest. Keep in that position for 10 seconds. If you feel pain, you should stop.
Hand Exercises
Tendon-gliding exercises may reduce the inflammation around the median nerve.
A research study shows these exercises may lessen the symptoms, but those who stay active but do not do these movements do not see any decrease in pain.
If you or any of your colleagues suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, please call Beyond Wellness, to find out more about how acupuncture can help you.
