Find Natural Remedies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is normally a result of pressure on the median nerve in the wrist.
Common causes of carpal tunnel syndrome include flexing and extending the wrist repeatedly (typists, musicians, hair stylists, carpenters, and tailors are some people who are at an increase risk of getting carpal tunnel syndrome), trauma that causes swelling in the wrist, fluid retention (such as during pregnancy or menopause), and medical conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis or hypothyroidism).
Natural Remedies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Vitamin B6
Studies conducted at the University of Texas have successfully treated many people suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome with vitamin B6 (including people with a vitamin B6 deficiency and people without a vitamin B6 deficiency). It can take up to 3 months before results are seen. Taking other B vitamins (especially vitamin B2) may enhance the effectiveness of vitamin B6.
Recommended dosage for adults is 25-50 mg 2-3 times a day (according to the Institute of Medicine, you should not exceed 100 mg a day). You should always consult with your health care provider before treating yourself naturally.
Botanicals
• Cayenne pepper contains 6 compounds that relieve pain and 7 that decrease inflammation. Add a few teaspoons of cayenne powder to 1/4 cup of lotion and rub on your wrist. Test on a small area when first using to check for skin irritation. Always wash your hands afterwards.
• Chamomile is a potent anti-inflammatory. Drinking 3-4 cups of chamomile tea a day can help decrease swelling and alleviate pain.
• Willowbark, an aspirin-like herb, can help reduce inflammation and pain. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1-2 teaspoons of powdered bark, cover, and steep for 10 minutes. Drink 3 cups a day. Wintergreen and meadowsweet are other aspirin-like herbs. If you are unable to take aspirin, you should avoid these herbs.
• Pineapple contains a powerful enzyme (bromelain) used to treat inflammatory conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Papaya and ginger also have enzymes that can help reduce inflammation. Prepare a fruit salad and spice it up with some grated ginger.
• Devil’s claw and burdock have also helped in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Other Natural Remedies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Soak your wrist in hot water for 3 minutes and, afterwards, soak it in cold water for 30 seconds. Repeat 3-5 times. This will help increase circulation and decrease swelling.
• Wear a splint or wrist brace (especially at night).
• Exercise your wrist periodically. In one hand, hold two steel balls (Chinese balls) and roll them around.
• Acupuncture has had positive results in treating carpal tunnel syndrome.
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