Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The symptoms of carpal tunnel are numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in your hand and wrist.

This syndrome affects the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in your wrist due to repetitive or continuous motion. The median nerve runs through the hand and gives function to the fingers and various parts of the hand. Inflammation from overuse causes increased pressure on the median nerve, resulting in numbness and pain in the hand and wrist.

Though this condition commonly occurs in people from overuse (repetitive movements), it can also be a genetic or biological condition where the carpal tunnel is physically smaller in some people than in others.

Symptoms usually start mildly, with pain, weakness, or numbness in the hand or wrist, and quickly evolve into more severe pain and disability that requires medical treatment.

In advanced cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, pain and tingling are constant, resulting in a decreased ability to grip, making it difficult to grasp, make a fist, or perform other manual tasks.

Seek medical attention if you suffer from pain and numbness in the hand and wrist. Getting a proper diagnosis and treatment quickly can alleviate the severity of the condition and allow healing.

Fortunately, some home remedies for carpal tunnel syndrome can help you to deal with this condition properly.

Home Remedies and Natural Cures for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation. They may recommend various approaches such as wrist splints, physical therapy, pain medication, or, in severe cases, surgery.

Rest

Rest the affected hand and wrist for at least two weeks and avoid any activity that would cause strain on the wrist, which might worsen the condition.

Take frequent breaks from repetitive motions and alternate tasks to reduce stress on the affected area. Stop the activities as best as possible that cause or aggravate the condition. Avoid typing or using a mouse or switch to using the other hand if possible.

Wrist Brace

Wear a wrist brace when performing any activity that could irritate the carpal nerve. Immobilization of the wrist in a brace or splint can help avoid further damage from bending or twisting the wrist. Soft neoprene wraps may also be helpful for additional support.

You can also wear a wrist splint only at night or during activities that trigger symptoms. A splint helps to keep the wrist position neutral, relieving pressure on the median nerve.

Cold/Heat

Ice packs, wrapped in a washcloth or hand towel and applied to the wrist, can reduce inflammation and ease the pain.

Apply an ice pack to the wrist for 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off to reduce inflammation and numbness. Wrapping the wrist in a warm heating pad is also soothing and provides relief improving blood flow and relaxing muscles.

Anti-inflammatory Pain Relief

Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, may temporarily alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

Exercise/Stretching

Regularly performing strengthening and stretching exercises, frequent breaks, and using correct posture and wrist position help improve flexibility and reduce symptoms by relieving pressure on the median nerve.

Hand and wrist exercises like wrist circles, finger stretches, and squeezing a stress ball help reduce symptoms. Perform gentle hand and wrist exercises to improve range of motion, reduce stiffness and maintain flexibility.

Consult with a physical or occupational therapist for exercises tailored to your condition.

Arthritis/Neuropathy Creams

Look for creams to soothe arthritis or neuropathy that contain capsaicin, which makes hot peppers hot, or cooling agents such as menthol or eucalyptus. Some examples are Capzasin, Penetrex, Bengay, Voltaren, Blu-Emu, Biofreeze, or Aspercream. These lotions disrupt pain signals and usually contain pain relievers to reduce stiffness and discomfort. Follow all manufacturer's instructions and avoid getting into the eyes.

B Vitamins

B complex, specifically B6, is thought to be helpful in carpal tunnel for many reasons. It is a diuretic that reduces excess water, swelling, and wrist pain. It raises pain thresholds as an analgesic and is beneficial to nerve health.

Carpal Tunnel Supplements

Several formulations are available to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel secret is one such supplement that contains ingredients to reduce pain and inflammation naturally. Look for ingredients such as turmeric root, boswellia serrata, ginkgo biloba, grapeseed, bromelain, citrus bioflavonoids, vitamin B-6, and vitamin C in your selected supplement.

Follow all manufacturer's instructions on usage.

Japanese Mint Oil

Japanese Mint Oil is helpful for arthritis and rheumatic pain. Apply a few drops and massage into the skin to stimulate circulation. Mint oil is good for spot massage treatment, helps promote blood circulation, relieves tight muscles, cramps, and rheumatic pain, and helps treat sprains, swellings, dislocations, sports injuries, and headaches.

Cautions

It's crucial to note that while these home remedies may provide temporary relief, they may not be sufficient to address the underlying cause of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Remember, these self-care tips are not a substitute for professional medical advice. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your condition and provide appropriate guidance and treatment options.