What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is, according to WebMD, the “numbness, tingling, weakness, and other problems in your hand because of pressure on the median nerve in your wrist”. If you have issues with all your fingers except your little finger, it could be due to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, as the median nerve doesn’t control this finger.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by pressure being placed on the median nerve because of things like swelling due to injury or conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis or repetitive hand movements (especially where the wrist is bent down). Some people have a genetic predisposition to this condition because their carpal tunnel is smaller than usual.

What Are Conventional Medical Treatments For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

For mild symptoms, doctors generally recommend that you stop doing any repetitive actions or activities that cause pain and/or numbness to occur, and that you rest your wrist more often after any activity. They also say you can apply an ice pack to your wrist for 10 to 15 minutes once or twice every hour. Wearing a splint at night can also help. They also often prescribe Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve the swelling and reduce the pain. However, like with all medications, there are side effects from taking them.

The sooner you start doing these things, the less likely you will be to suffer further damage to the nerve and further symptoms. Changing the way you use your hands can also help (e.g. using the whole hand rather than just the fingers to hold objects).

In severe cases, doctors sometimes recommend surgery.

What Are Alternative Treatments For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Some people find yoga, physical therapy, occupational therapy or high-intensity ultrasound treatments useful. Taking B6 supplements may help. It is a matter of finding out what works for you. Of course, essential oils can be used for carpal tunnel syndrome. See the Useful Essential Oils tab for more information.