Acupuncture promotes healing of the wrist by reducing inflammation and tension in the tendons. As a result, there is an increase in strength and dexterity, along with a lessening of the numbness and weakness.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can improve significantly with 6 to 8 treatments at twice a week visit. In many cases, at least half the recovery is achieved. Continuation of treatments can achieve further recovery.
If it is job-related, regular maintenance visits at every two weeks keep the symptoms at bay.
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It has been estimated that millions of Americans have the syndrome, due primarily to their occupations. The direct cause is pressure on the median nerve, which carries messages between the hand and brain. The carpal tunnel itself is a narrow opening in the wrist. Nine tendons as well as the median nerve pass through it. If any of these tendons swell, the median nerve may become pinched, leading to inflammation, swelling, and pain. Anyone whose job calls for repeating the same motions over and over is vulnerable to the syndrome. Computer operators, pianists, and checkout clerks are among those who are at high risk.
Carpal tunnel syndrome, which encompasses a range of symptoms affecting the hands and wrists, is now the most common hand problem for a visit to the doctor.
SELF-TEST One simple test pointing to a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is called Phalen’s test. You put the backs of your hands against each other with the wrists completely flexed. If you feel numbness, tingling, or pain within 60 seconds, the median nerve is compressed.
