Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a progressive condition that can be quite painful. The cause is usually the compression of a key nerve in the wrist. This nerve runs from the forearm into the hand and the condition occurs when it becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. Pain, weakness and/or numbness in the hand and wrist are usually the first symptoms which progressively tend to get worse. When this happens, a tingling sensation may be felt which will decrease grip strength. Simple tasks such as forming a fist or grasping small objects can become difficult.

Most times the disorder is due to a congenital predisposition - the carpal tunnel is simply smaller in some people than in others. In some cases, a direct cause remains unidentified. However, the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome is especially higher in people that perform assembly line work.

The pain associated with Carpal Tunnel can be quite disturbing, especially when every day tasks seem to become more and more difficult. There are some natural treatments to consider when the condition becomes too much to deal with.

First, you should rest the affected hand and wrist for at least 2 weeks and avoid activities that may make symptoms worse. Second, immobilizing the wrist with a splint is a great way to avoid further damage from twisting or bending.

Next, take what ever anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, ibuprofen, and other nonprescription pain relievers and chuck them in the garbage. That’s the best place for all of that stuff. Instead consider some holistic alternatives like acupuncture.

In one study, 83% of people with CTS experienced complete relief that lasted through two to eight years of follow-up after receiving either acupuncture or electro-acupuncture. That’s pretty impressive in my opinion.

As stated by the National Institutes of Health "acupuncture for CTS may be useful as an adjunct treatment or an acceptable alternative or be included in a comprehensive management program." Other good homeopathic choices include reflexology and magnet therapy.

I also recommend supplementing with the following:

Vitamin B6 - 100 mg three times daily. - reduces nerve inflammation.

B- Complex - will prevent an imbalance of the other B vitamins.

Bromelain - 500 mg three times daily between meals. - Anti-inflammatory.

Calcium -500mg of magnesium twice daily. - reduces muscle tightness and nerve irritation.

Magnesium - 250mg of magnesium twice daily.

Folic acid - 800 mcg. daily.