Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is caused by excessive pressure on the median nerve that extends from the forearm to the wrist, often from repetitive finger and hand use. CTS can lead to weakness and even muscle damage if left untreated.

Aside from addressing the causal behavior and utilizing splints and stretches for recovery, anti inflammatory drugs or cortisone injections can be prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation.  However, in the worst cases those affected by carpal tunnel must undergo surgery.

Unfortunately, those medications prescribed for CTS often come with a slew of side effects.  So for those looking for an alternative, acupuncture is highly effective at treating carpal tunnel.  Acupuncture can be used to decrease inflammation, reduce pain and increase circulation to the affected area.   According to TCM, acupuncture helps reduce stagnation in the area and increase blood flow, helping to relieve symptoms.

Patients treated with acupuncture test better neurologically and have lower reported pain, weakness and numbness.  Regular acupuncture treatment can eliminate the need for future surgery or the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids.

Over 465,000 carpal tunnel operations are performed each year.  However, with proper prevention techniques and treatment, fewer Americans risk undergoing this invasive surgery.  If you are experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel, consider acupuncture treatment to help reduce current symptoms as well and prevent them from exacerbating.