Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common job-related injuries and is responsible for the highest number of days lost among all work related injuries. Acupuncture is extremely effective at treating carpal tunnel syndrome; eliminating the need for surgery or the use of anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids. Recent studies even suggest that acupuncture may be more effective than corticosteroids in treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist made up of ligaments and bones. The median nerve and the tendons that connect the fingers to the muscles of the forearm pass through this tightly spaced tunnel. Carpal tunnel syndrome, also known as median nerve entrapment, occurs when swelling or irritation of the nerve or tendons in the carpal tunnel results in pressure on the median nerve.
Symptoms generally begin with occasional burning, tingling, or numbness in the palm of the hand and the fingers, especially the thumb, index and middle fingers. The symptoms often first appear during the night. As symptoms worsen, people feel pain, weakness, or numbness in the hand and wrist, radiating up the arm during the day. Decreased grip strength may make it difficult to form a fist, grasp small objects, or perform other manual tasks. If not properly treated, CTS can cause irreversible nerve damage and permanent deterioration of muscle tissue.
Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with Acupuncture
Carpal tunnel Syndrome is caused by a disruption of the flow of Qi and Blood within the muscles and sinews of the neck, shoulder, arm, and wrist. By loosening muscle impingement and relieving tightness and inflammation, acupuncture can effect almost instant relief.
While reducing the swelling, inflammation and pain in the wrist, acupuncture also addresses any headaches, neck pain, shoulder stiffness and sleeping problems that often accompany Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Treatments are supplemented with daily stretching and strengthening routines in order to prevent future recurrence.
Your treatment may also take into account any underlying conditions that contribute to the development of CTS including obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid problems, diabetes, hormonal changes of pregnancy and menopause.
