Carpal tunnel: natural treatments

This is the first hand surgery intervention. Carpal tunnel syndrome causes painful symptoms. But before considering surgery, and when the ailments are mild, there are natural treatments. Discover all the remedies to fight carpal tunnel inflammation.

Summary

What is carpal tunnel?

The carpal tunnel is a channel located on the inside of the wrist. It houses both the median nerve as well as the tendons of the muscles that flex the fingers. Behind and to the sides, the carpal tunnel is bordered by the bones that form part of the wrist. And in front it is limited by the annular ligament.

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is revealed at once particular and frequent. It results in numbness and tingling in the fingers. These ailments are also accompanied by a decrease in the muscle strength of the wrist of the hand.

This syndrome is characterized by neurological disorders, which are caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist. This is then cramped in the carpal tunnel. Thus, stimulation of the median nerve causes arterial spasm.

Symptoms

Generally, patients over 50 suffer from paresthesias. This can take the form of tingling, numbness, tingling, burning or even a dead finger, and affect one or both hands. These symptoms most often occur at night, and frequently affect the first three fingers (thumb, index, middle finger). Sleep is greatly disturbed.

On the other hand, hypoesthesia, that is to say a decrease in sensation to touch, can also occur. And the pain can also radiate into the arm.

The causes

Most often, people with carpal tunnel syndrome have a inflammation of tendons and tendon sheaths which ensure the mobility of the fingers. This inflammation is called synovitis, which in some cases follows a wrist fracture.

On the other hand, microtraumas, repeated gestures or vibrations can also lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. Musicians and manual workers (gardener, painter, farmer, locksmith, etc.) are the most affected by this evil. Moreover, the syndrome is part of occupational diseases, and is considered a musculoskeletal disorder.

And there are also contributing factors such as pregnancy, menopause or the use of oral contraceptives.

Finally, a local cause can explain the occurrence of the syndrome. It can be rheumatoid disease, gout, hypothyroidism, diabetes, arthritis.

To note : in half of the subjects, no cause is found. And most sufferers are women over 50.

Natural treatments

Before considering a surgical treatment consisting in cutting the anterior annular ligament of the carpus, it is advisable to appeal to natural treatments.

Using a splint at night

The use of a night splint, also called gutter, can be useful at night to put the wrist at rest.

Arnica ointment

To reduce the pain associated with inflammation, you can use an arnica ointment. Just rub your wrists with the product, twice a day. This medicinal plant relieves carpal tunnel pain.

Rest

This is the simplest natural remedy for carpal tunnel syndrome. Cease your usual activities and rest your wrist, hand and fingers.

When the carpal tunnel symptoms are gone, get back to your normal routine. On the other hand, some changes related to the use of a keyboard or a mouse can be beneficial.

Stretching exercises

At any time of the day, perform wrist stretching exercises. This will relieve pressure on the median nerve.

Proceed in this way: clench your fist and then slide your fingers one by one so that they are straight. The exercise can be repeated up to ten times in a row.

And if the carpal tunnel problem stems from fluid retention, elevate your sore hand as often as possible.

Cold

To decrease the pain associated with inflammation, use ice wrapped in a towel. Leave on your wrists for ten minutes. Then, massage the affected area. The operation can be repeated every two hours if necessary.

The heat

Heat can also relieve pain because it relaxes the muscles. Simply immerse your hands in hot or lukewarm water for about ten minutes. The operation is to be performed every night before going to bed.

Bromelain

This enzyme contained in pineapple has anti-inflammatory properties. Eating pineapple helps reduce pain in your aching wrists, and speed healing.

Flax seeds

At the table, every day, take a spoonful of flaxseed oil. This product rich in omega-3 fatty acids has benefits on inflammation due to carpal tunnel syndrome. You can eat it raw or put it in a vinaigrette, or orange juice.

And in general, when you suffer from carpal tunnel, it is advisable to consume foods rich in omega-3.

clay

Apply clay poultices to your wrists, covering the paste with a tissue or paper towel. Apply to the affected area in a thick layer. And leave it on for about 45 minutes.

The operation can be repeated several times if necessary until the symptoms disappear.

Essential oils

Essential oils have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve symptoms.

Mix four drops of wintergreen with three drops of vegetable oils of arnica and five drops of essential oils of St. John’s wort. Then, massage the part between the thumb and the forearm, passing through the wrist. Perform the application at least three times a day for more efficiency.

Please note that essential oils are not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children under 6 years old.

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