Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Natural Approach
Office workers rarely experience workplace injuries, but carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common issue for individuals who spend long hours at the computer.
This article is for anyone dealing with CTS, wrist pain, or inflammation and seeks to explore the most effective complementary medicine treatments available for this condition.
In many cases, patients seek acupuncture for CTS as a last resort, often “just before surgery.” If you’re tired of relying on injections or pills and want to avoid surgery for a non-life-threatening issue, this article is for you.
A Case of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Meet Jack, a 29-year-old computer engineer at a high-tech company.
Jack scheduled his acupuncture session early in the morning to ensure he could get to work on time. He had been experiencing pain in his left palm that caused numbness in his second and third fingers. The discomfort stemmed from prolonged computer use, where pressure on his wrist led to pain and sensitivity.
During his first acupuncture treatment, needles were placed on Jack’s right foot. To his surprise, the sensitivity in his hand decreased by 50%. In subsequent sessions, he received similar treatments, and the pain and numbness steadily diminished. Jack avoided surgery entirely.
Additionally, I advised Jack to improve his sitting posture at his workstation and replace his keyboard and mouse with ergonomic equipment.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The carpal tunnel is a passageway located on the palm side of the wrist. The tunnel’s lower boundary consists of the palm bones, while its upper boundary is a thick band of tissue just beneath the skin. Tendons and nerves pass through this canal.
When the median nerve becomes compressed, symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and arm. Internal pressure in the canal—often caused by local inflammation—can lead to feelings of electric currents, pain, and difficulty grasping objects.
This condition, called carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), can result from:
- Repetitive joint strain
- Poor posture or ergonomics during work
- Leaning the wrist on hard surfaces while using a computer
- Excessive movement of the mouse or keyboard
Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Acupuncture is a highly effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, targeting specific points to unblock energy pathways and restore balance within the body. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), inflammation in carpal tunnel syndrome often relates to points 6 or 7 on the pericardial meridian, which governs the affected area.
The most recommended treatment involves acupuncture, which reduces inflammation and provides pain relief early in the treatment series. These acupuncture points are typically located in the feet, hands, and occasionally on the wrist itself.
Many patients report a sensation of energy flow when the needles are inserted—a clear indication of unblocking energy in the palm. This improved flow of energy and blood allows the body to begin repairing the damaged joints.
For severe cases, frequent treatments are recommended initially, with the frequency gradually reduced as the condition improves.
The Differential Diagnosis for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
It is not uncommon for patients to undergo carpal tunnel surgery only to find that it fails to resolve their symptoms. In some cases, the issue stems from an incorrect diagnosis. Pressure on the nerve at a higher location, such as the cervical spine (neck), can produce symptoms identical to those of carpal tunnel syndrome.
A few simple diagnostic tests can clarify whether the pain originates from the wrist, the neck, or both. Acupuncture can address nerve pressure in the cervical spine, making it a valuable option to explore before considering surgery. By addressing both the wrist and neck, acupuncture offers a comprehensive solution to pain relief.
Summary
Acupuncture in the Edmonton clinic is an effective, non-invasive treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. It reduces inflammation, restores energy flow, and promotes healing by targeting specific acupuncture points in the hands, feet, and wrist. Patients often notice pain relief early in the treatment process. Acupuncture can also address cervical spine issues, providing an alternative to surgery for patients with symptoms caused by nerve compression.
