Natural Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Excercises and Home Remedies

The carpal tunnel syndrome is considered a disorder of the modern times, however it has been recognized since 1880s. Carpel tunnel syndrome signs and symptoms include pain in the wrist and tingling numbness. Carpel tunnel relief at home comprises of vitamin supplements and simple carpal tunnel exercises. This article provides information about carpel tunnel syndrome and its home treatment.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
 

The bones and ligaments in the wrist (carpus) form a passageway which is called the carpal tunnel. The median nerve that governs the movements and sensations of the hand, and tendons connecting the arm muscles pass through this tunnel. 
The tunnel may narrow due to swelling of the tendons or ligaments, fluid retention or dislocation of a bone. This narrowing may constrict the median nerve, and cause pain, weakness, tingling, and numbness.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel ?

Here are some of the common causes that are associated with the development of symptoms associated with carpel tunnel,

• This condition develops due to stress injury caused by long-drawn-out repetitive movements of the fingers and hands, such as, typing, playing musical instruments, knitting, etc. These tend to inflame the tendons and ligaments, making them swell and thereby compressing the median nerve.
• Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause , taking contraceptive pills or Hormone replacement therapy can trigger or aggravate the condition.
• Trauma or injury to the wrist is another important causative factor.
• Diabetes, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, and Raynaud’s disease may produce carpal tunnel syndrome as well.

The condition is characterized by:

1. Shooting pain on the wrist and forearm; pain may radiate to the and shoulder and neck
2. Tingling numbness in the thumb and first 3 fingers
3. Weakness of the hand; difficulty in lifting objects

How to Treat Carpal Tunnel Naturally?  

The symptoms come on gradually or suddenly. Furthermore, the symptoms may last for a few days and disappear without any treatment or may persist for months needing medication. Consulting a doctor is essential in case you have an underlying disorder such as diabetes or hypothyroidism; there is excessive pain and stiffness; or you cannot day to day activities.

Here are some simple tips on how to treat the condition naturally,

• You must take regular breaks if you are performing repetitive activity using the hands. Shake your hands frequently and flex your fingers.
• When the pain comes on, apply ice for 15 minutes. Ice will alleviate the pain and diminish the swelling and inflammation.
• When you lie down, elevate the wrist with a pillow.
• Restrict your intake of salt. Salt causes water retention, which can set off swelling and worsen the condition to a great extent.

Home Remedies for Carpal Tunnel Treatment

There are certain home remedies and natural treatments that can help in the management of this condition at home,

Turmeric Reduces
 Inflammation

1. Vitamin B complex: vitamin B helps manage the tingling numbness effectively; it is important in marinating a healthy nerve tissue, decreasing inflammation and enhancing circulation. A supplement thrice daily till the symptoms subside is advised.
2. Turmeric: Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory properties and relives the pain significantly. Add 1 spoon of turmeric powder to a glass of milk and have daily, until you see improvement.
3. Ginger: is another powerful anti-inflammatory agent. The herb is packed with gingerols; gingerols reduce swelling and inflammation and thus help manage the pain. Add 1 spoon of dried ginger powder or an inch of grated fresh ginger to a glass of water and boil for 10 minutes. Have this decoction twice every day.



Stretching Exercise for
Carpal Tunnel

Hand Exercises and Simple Stretches


Certain exercises will help alleviate the symptoms of carpal tunnel . They stretch and strengthen the muscles of the forearm, lessen the tension on the tendons that pass through the tunnel, ease the pressure on the median nerve, stretch the ligaments, and help blood flow out of the  tunnel, thus decreasing fluid pressure.

Confer with your physical therapist about the various exercises that will provide relief from the symptoms of carpal tunnel.