Home Remedies For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition marked by sometimes severe pain in the wrists and hands. There may also be numbness, a burning sensation, wrist inflammation, swelling, and wrist weakness in either or both hands. The bones of the wrist form a tunnel through which nerves pass. Pain and swelling occur when these nerves and the nerves that pass between the tendons of the forearm muscles are compressed. Carpal tunnel syndrome usually occurs in individuals who do repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as typists, tennis players, grocery store clerks, and the like. It is most common in women between the ages of thirty and sixty, but it can affect anyone at any time. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition of the wrist in which the median nerve is injured or depressed due to repeated use of the wrist or a physical injury. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by increased pressure on the median nerve. The median nerve is an important nerve on the hand; it gives sensation to the thumb, middle, ring, and index fingers. This nerve is protected by carpal tunnel, which is a thick band of muscles around the median nerve. Though this muscular sheath is very strong and hard and is meant to protect the nerves inside it, it can get depressed due to repeated use of the wrist. In such a case, the carpal tunnel becomes smaller, and the nerves inside it may get depressed or damaged, causing considerable pain. Carpal tunnel syndrome is more common in women than in men. Carpal tunnel syndrome causes numbness and pain in the hand. This syndrome affects the hands and wrists. A similar condition may also occur in the ankles as well. The bone and joint mechanism in the ankles is very similar to that of the wrist and an injury to the ankle may cause a condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Several diseases and conditions are also associated with carpal tunnel syndromes, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, kidney failure, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, and high blood pressure.
Home Remedies For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Carpal tunnel syndrome tea
- 1 teaspoon chopped valerian root
- 2 teaspoons white willow bark
- 2 cups cold water
- Combine the herbs in a pan and cover with cold water. Soak overnight; strain. Take up to one cup a day, a tablespoon at a time. This tea can help relieve nerve pain.
- There are many simple things that you can do to keep carpal tunnel syndrome at bay. One of the easiest things to do is to use fat tool handles. If your tool handles are not fat then use some rubber grip to fatten them. This makes them easier to grip and reduces the pressure on the carpal tunnel. Also, keep this tip in mind if you like to work out with free weights. Keep knives and other cutting tools sharp so that less pressure is exerted on the median nerve. Do not hold a pen with a tight grip while writing. Once again, when buying a pen opt for one that has a thicker grip.
- To avoid carpel tunnel syndrome, it is advised to stay in shape. Keep a close watch on the nutrition you are getting and take sound sleep at night.
- Always wear a wrist splint, especially at night. For carpel tunnel relief at night a splint is the best option. If the pain is severe, you can also wear the carpel tunnel splint while working on the computer. There are special wrist supports available in the market, which is specifically designed for people who are affected by carpal tunnel syndrome. They support your wrist while allowing you to manipulate a mouse or type on a keyboard with ease.
- Carpel tunnel relief can also be got by using ice. You can apply an ice pack on your aching wrist, as it will lessen the pain. If ice is unavailable, go for a hot treatment. Apply a heating pad on the aching wrist and leave it on for some time. Carpel tunnel syndrome treatment at home involves the use of preventive measures and exercises. However, it is best to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Author: Dr Izharul Hasan
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