Home Remedies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Inside each wrist is a narrow passage called the carpal tunnel. Runningthrough this tunnel are nine tendons that move your fingers, along withthe median nerve. These tendons can become inflammed and swell,compressing the nerve. Repetitive hand motion is one well-known causeof carpal tunnel syndrome, but other factors include pregnancy, birth-control pills, rheumatoid arthritis,and being overweight.

Massage Therapy :-

Massaging your hands and wrists is another effective way to alleviate some symptoms of CTS. It will activate the pressure points on your hands, which in turn will increase blood supply, relax stiff muscles, improve mobility and reduce pain.

1. Rub some warm coconut or olive oil on your hands and wrists.
2. Massage your arms, wrists, hands and fingers with gentle strokes for 10 to 15 minutes.

1. Do this 2 or 3 times daily until you notice improvement in your condition.

You can get help from a massage therapist, also.

Note: Do not massage if your joints feel too tender or painful.

Cold Compress :-

For temporary and quick relief from inflammation and numbness caused by CTS, you can use a cold compress. The cold temperature will help relieve pain by numbing the affected area. It even reduces swelling and inflammation.

1. Put a few ice cubes in a plastic, sealable bag.
2. Wrap the bag in a towel and apply it on the affected area.
3. Leave it in place for about 10 minutes.
4. Repeat every hour or so, as needed.

Note: Never apply ice directly on your skin.

Epsom Salt :-

Epsom salt is a natural muscle relaxant and anti-inflammatory due to its magnesium content. It can effectively relax the tightened muscles in your hands and wrists.

1. Mix ½ to 1 cup of Epsom salt in a deep tub with warm water.
2. Soak your hands and wrists in it for about 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Use this remedy 2 or 3 times a week until you get relief from pain and stiffness.

Acupuncture :-

1. Acupuncturists insert thin needles into specifics point on the body.
2. Traditional theory holds blockages along energy pathways in the body, called meridians, can cause pain.
3. Acupuncture releases these blockages and improves the flow of energy along meridians.
4. A scientific explanation is that acupuncture may release natural pain-relieving chemicals into the body, promote circulation in body, and balance the nervous system.
5. What is a treatment like? For carpal tunnel syndrome, acupuncture points are generally on the wrist, arm, thumb, and hands, as well as other parts of the body such as the upper back, neck, and leg.

Castor Oil :-

1. Warm some castor oil and apply it on your hands and fingers.
2. Massage your wrists, thumbs, fingers and the back of your hands for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Wrap your hands in flannel and leave it on for an hour.
4. Do this once daily for a week or until there is improvement.

A natural boost for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment

• Twice a day, rub your wrists with an ointment containing arnica. This herbal treatment, renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, helps ease aches and pains. Dab the inside of each wrist with about one-quarter teaspoon of the ointment, then massage that area with the thumb of the other hand, all the way to the base of your palm. Repeat every morning and night until your symptoms ease.

• Bromelain, an enzyme derived from pineapples, digests inflammatory proteins, so it can reduce inflammation in your sore wrists. Along with reducing the pain, it may help you heal faster.

• The herb St. John’s wort, best known as an antidepressant, can also help repair nerve damage and reduce carpal tunnel syndrome pain and inflammation.

• Take a tablespoon of flaxseed oil every day, and give it at least two weeks to have an effect. Flaxseed oil is extremely rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation. Take it with food for better absorption. If you like, you can mix it into your orange juice or add it to your salad dressing.

• Curcumin is an anti-inflammatory component found in the spice turmeric. In Ayurvedic medicine, which originated in India, turmeric has a long history of use as a medicine for pain and inflammation. But the spice doesn’t pack the punch of curcumin supplements.

• Try elemental magnesium. This trace mineral is involved in nerve function and muscle relaxation. A supplement may help carpal tunnel syndrome, especially if you don’t eat a lot of magnesium-rich whole grains, legumes or green vegetables. The most absorbable forms are magnesium lactate, magnesium orotate, magnesium glycinate and magnesium gluconate. The only side effect might be loose bowel movements. If you have that problem, just reduce the dose.

Castor oil is another good remedy for treating CTS. It can help reduce inflammation, suppress pain and restore normal functioning in your wrists.