What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and wrist. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed or irritated. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as repetitive hand motions, wrist positioning, or underlying medical conditions. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can affect anyone but is particularly common among office workers, assembly line workers, and those who frequently use their hands in repetitive ways.
Causes and Risk Factors
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the wrist. This pressure can result from several underlying issues and risk factors, including:
Repetitive hand movements, such as typing or manual work
Wrist injuries or fractures
Fluid retention, often linked to pregnancy or menopause
Underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or hypothyroidism
Prolonged or awkward wrist positioning, especially during sleep
Identifying the Symptoms
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms usually begin gradually and can worsen over time if left untreated. Common symptoms include:
Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers
Symptoms that are often worse at night, disturbing sleep
Weakness in the hand, leading to difficulty gripping objects
Persistent symptoms that can lead to muscle atrophy at the base of the thumb if untreated
East Asian Medicine's Perspective on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
In East Asian medicine, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is seen as a result of blocked qi (energy flow) and blood stagnation in the wrist area. This blockage can be caused by repetitive strain, improper posture, or underlying imbalances in the body. By restoring the balance of qi and promoting the smooth flow of blood through acupuncture and related therapies, East Asian medicine aims to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with CTS.
Holistic Treatment at Mi Rae Acupuncture
For those suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, acupuncture offers a non-invasive and effective option. At Mi Rae Acupuncture, we approach CTS treatment holistically, targeting not only the wrist area but also related muscles and nerves to alleviate symptoms and reduce inflammation. Acupuncture helps improve blood flow, decrease inflammation, and relieve nerve compression, offering pain relief and enhanced function over time. In addition to acupuncture, we may recommend complementary therapies such as injection therapy, moxibustion, laser acupuncture, or wrist-focused massage therapy to further enhance results.
Tips for Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Preventative measures include:
Taking regular breaks from repetitive activities
Maintaining a neutral wrist position while working
Practicing hand and wrist stretches to keep the area flexible
Using ergonomic tools, such as an ergonomic keyboard or mouse
Keeping wrists straight when lifting objects and avoiding putting direct pressure on the palms
Maintaining a healthy weight, as excess weight can contribute to increased pressure on the wrist structures
Embrace a Healthier Future
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can significantly impact daily life, making even simple tasks challenging. At Mi Rae Acupuncture, our personalized approach aims to help you regain comfort and function in your wrist and hand, improving your quality of life. Whether you've recently noticed symptoms or have been dealing with them for some time, our tailored treatments can help bring you relief and restore your mobility. Visit Mi Rae Acupuncture to take the next step towards a healthier, pain-free future.