Alternative Therapies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Last week we explored what Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is and what causes it.  

Now the question is; what can you do about? 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can require medical treatment and often results in surgery, but that doesn't mean that there aren't other options available.  There are many alternative therapy techniques that can relieve carpal tunnel symptoms and improve over all function and mobility of the wrists and hands.These include, but are not limited to; Reflexology, Herb Treatment, and Exercise.

Reflexology is the application of pressure to specific locations on the hands and/or feet that are believed effect various other parts of the body. Performing reflexology on points relating to the arms and wrists can potentially provide some relief from CTS.

The following links can provide you with more information regarding reflexology for CTS:
http://www.aznetnews.com/story.php?storyid=316
http://ezinearticles.com/?Hand-Reflexology-and-Carpal-Tunnel-Syndrome&id=2246080

There are also supplements that are thought to improve carpal tunnel syndrome. These include vitamin B6, B12, and Arnica amongst others. Consulting an herbalist, naturopath or nutritionist can help you decide what supplements may be right for you.  Be sure to consult with your physician before introducing any new supplements to your diet.

Perhaps one of the most important things you can do at home to manage your CTS is exercise. Stretching your arms and wrists (gently) and doing range of motion exercises, as well as self massage and relaxation can decrease the amount of pressure on the median nerve and subsequently relieve symptoms.

Check out some Carpal Tunnel exercises at these links:
http://www.eatonhand.com/hw/ctexercise.htm
http://boingboing.net/2009/03/31/carpal-tunnel-syndro.html

For more information, check out:
http://altmedicine.about.com/od/carpaltunnelsyndrome/a/carpal_tunnel.htm

Many people who suffer from CTS wear wrist braces while performing repetitive wrist movements such as typing.  Our customers have reported that applying Sore No More! to their wrists, especially while wearing the braces improves the over all feeling of their wrists and hands. 

As with all exercises and alternative therapies, make sure to stay in your comfort zone. Do not over stretch or apply too much pressure, start small and work your way up to more intensive exercises. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome should be managed under your health care provider's supervision.

*Sore No More! is not a licensed physician. All information on this blog is researched by our staff and is subject to inaccuracies. No information found here should be used in the place of advice from your doctor. *  
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