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You’re doing your usual routine, either dropping off the last delivery or writing the last page to your most important novel, but gradually you’ve experienced some numbness and tingling which has now become worse. You go get checked out and find out that you have carpal tunnel syndrome.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
This condition occurs due to compression of the median nerve, which passes through the wrist via the carpal tunnel. The nerve is responsible for sensation as well as some movement. Narrowing of the tunnel can occur if the surrounding tendons become inflamed or irritated.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
The palm, thumb, index finger, middle finger, and the side of the ring finger closest to the middle finger are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically begin gradually and may include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and weakness. Some individuals may even experience a feeling of swollen fingers without visible swelling.
- Weak grip strength
- Wasting of the muscle under the thumb
- Pain extending toward the elbow
- Difficulty with fine finger movements
Individuals who work in certain industries or perform repetitive hand activities are more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome. This includes sewing, writing, driving, and excessive use of hand tools. Assemblers are three times more likely than data entry workers to acquire this injury, and women are approximately three times more likely than men to develop carpal tunnel syndrome2.
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Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome may improve over time with conservative care. Wrist splints are commonly used for support. Anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed, including corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling. However, these injections may provide only short-term relief.3
A review of twelve studies involving more than 650 participants found that 20 months after treatment there was no significant difference in outcomes between corticosteroid injections and tablets. Two trials showed no difference between corticosteroids and other treatments such as anti-inflammatory drugs used alongside wrist braces.
Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel
A 1997 NIH consensus statement concluded that acupuncture may be useful as an adjunct treatment or acceptable alternative for managing CTS5. A randomized controlled trial in 2009 found that acupuncture performed comparably to the anti-inflammatory drug prednisone and demonstrated greater reduction in nocturnal awakening symptoms6.
Research continues to explore the benefits of acupuncture for carpal tunnel syndrome. It provides an option for individuals wishing to avoid steroid medications or surgery.
Always consult your primary healthcare provider regarding any health concerns or medical questions.
References
1. Mayo Clinic. 2011. Prednisone and other corticosteroids: Balance the risks and benefits. Retrieved December 28, 2011 from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/steroids/HQ01431
2. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. 2011. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/carpal_tunnel/detail_carpal_tunnel.htm
3. PubMed Health. 2010. Carpal tunnel syndrome: Do corticosteroid injections work. Retrieved December 28, 2011 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0005036/
4. PubMed Health. 2010. Retrieved December 28, 2011 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001469/
5. Carlson H, Colbert A, Frydl J, Arnall E, Elliot M, Carlson N. Current options for nonsurgical management of carpal tunnel syndrome. Int J Clin Rheumatol. 2010;5(1):129–142. doi:10.2217/IJR.09.63
6. Yang CP, Hsieh CL, Wang NH, Li TC, Hwang KL, Yu SC, Chang MH. Acupuncture in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Clin J Pain. 2009;25(4):327–333.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or treatment.
I have a friend of mine who is a blogger who had to resort to using a voice activated typing system for his blog. Besides acupuncture I recommended that he eat pineapple which has natural anti inflammatory properties.
Hi Justin that is a great idea with the voice command. Especially with the technology that is available today I’m pretty sure it is much easier to implement with ease. Some practitioners also use vitamin b6 to reduced the symptoms of carpal tunnel.
Acupuncture is an excellent aid for carpal tunnel syndrome and should be the first choice for anyone suffering from this malady.
Also, in your first paragraph, the correct use of your in that sentence is “You’re (not your) doing your usual routing…”
I meant to type:
“You’re (not your) doing your usual routine…”
Hi Deborah thanks for stopping by and letting me know, sometimes one can slip right by. Acupuncture is great, and in addition acupuncture will also help you with other problems in the body because everything is interconnected.