Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel
Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The carpal tunnel is a small but crucial passageway in the wrist, nestled at the base of the palm. It is formed by a combination of bones and ligaments, creating a protective pathway for the median nerve and several tendons. These structures provide sensation to the thumb and most fingers and facilitate hand and finger movement.
Despite its importance, the carpal tunnel’s limited size makes it particularly susceptible to problems. When the space within this channel becomes restricted or pressure increases, the median nerve can become compressed, resulting in a disorder called carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a common nerve condition that impacts the hand.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can interfere with normal nerve signaling, greatly affecting an individual’s capacity to carry out everyday activities. Understanding the carpal tunnel’s role in hand functionality is vital to grasping the challenges posed by CTS. While this passageway is pivotal in enabling precise hand movements and sensations, slight disruptions in its delicate balance can cause discomfort.
Alternative therapies like acupuncture for carpal tunnel have demonstrated the potential to ease discomfort, relieve nerve compression, and restore ease of movement in everyday activities.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel?
Various factors can lead to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS):
- Repetitive strain. Engaging in tasks that require continuous hand and wrist movements, such as prolonged keyboard use or repetitive physical tasks, raises the risk of CTS.
- Anatomical characteristics. Those with naturally smaller carpal tunnels are more likely to experience nerve compression.
- Chronic health issues. Conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid dysfunction can increase susceptibility to CTS by causing inflammation or nerve damage.
- Pregnancy-related changes. Hormonal shifts during pregnancy often result in fluid buildup, which can exert additional pressure on the median nerve.
Carpal Tunnel Symptoms
Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms often include numbness or tingling, particularly in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. These sensations are frequently more pronounced at night or after prolonged hand use.
Many individuals also experience hand weakness, which makes it difficult to grip objects or perform fine motor tasks, such as buttoning a shirt. A burning sensation in the fingers or pain radiating up the arm to the elbow or shoulder is also common.
As the condition progresses, signs of carpal tunnel may become more severe, with constant pain and reduced sensitivity in the fingers. As the condition worsens, the pain may become persistent, and the loss of sensation in the fingers can interfere with daily activities. In advanced cases, the muscles at the base of the thumb may weaken, making it difficult to perform tasks that require precision or strength. If these symptoms occur, seeking medical advice promptly is crucial to prevent further complications.
If You are Worried About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Make an Appointment with Us!
Can Acupuncture Help with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Acupuncture has shown promise as a practical approach to alleviating symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Enhancing blood circulation to the wrist may help reduce inflammation and swelling, ultimately relieving pain. This technique involves stimulating specific acupoints, which target pain and support the restoration of nerve function. As a result, individuals often experience improved hand mobility and reduced stiffness. Many patients report that acupuncture effectively manages their symptoms and contributes to an overall improvement in quality of life.
Studies support these claims, with studies highlighting reductions in pain and numbness after acupuncture treatments. Moreover, the benefits often persist well beyond the treatment period. Some evidence suggests that acupuncture achieves these results by influencing how the brain interprets and processes pain signals, which may lead to the restoration of nerve health. A systematic review affirmed that acupuncture is a safe and viable option, particularly for individuals who have not responded to conventional therapies.
For those experiencing mild to moderate CTS, acupuncture offers a safe and natural alternative. It can be particularly beneficial for alleviating discomfort when other conservative treatments have failed. By stimulating the release of natural painkillers, such as endorphins, acupuncture eases pain and supports the body’s innate healing processes.
Benefits of Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Acupuncture offers several advantages for those suffering from CTS:
- Pain relief. By stimulating specific points, acupuncture can reduce pain and discomfort in the affected area.
- Improved nerve function. Acupuncture may enhance nerve conduction and reduce inflammation, improving hand function.
- Reduced inflammation. The therapy can decrease swelling and pressure on the median nerve.
- Holistic approach. Acupuncture addresses the body’s balance, potentially improving overall well-being.
How Effective is Acupuncture for CTS?
Acupuncture may serve as an effective alternative to medical treatments for certain cases of mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
A 2020 study found that individuals with CTS who underwent acupuncture treatment for four weeks experienced improvements in symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling, and muscular weakness.
A 2021 systematic review similarly indicates that acupuncture can be effective in treating mild to moderate symptoms of CTS.
A 2017 study found that acupuncture helped alleviate symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and suggested that the body’s response to acupuncture may alter signaling pathways in the brain.
Therefore, although individual responses may vary, current research suggests that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for alleviating symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Safety and Side Effects: Choosing a Qualified Acupuncturist
A licensed and skilled practitioner considers acupuncture a safe and effective carpal tunnel treatment option. Although rare, minor side effects may occur, such as mild soreness or slight bruising at needle sites. Choosing a professional with proven expertise is important to ensure the highest level of care.
Marina Doktorman, L.Ac., has over 20 years of experience in the field. She blends traditional Chinese medicine techniques with diverse acupuncture methods to create tailored treatment plans. She specializes in acupuncture services such as esoteric acupuncture, acupuncture for PTSD, acupuncture for constipation and others. Marina Doktorman sees her patients at Pulse Acupuncture which is located in Clifton, NJ, and Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can significantly disrupt daily routines, but acupuncture provides a comprehensive and natural method for symptoms. It provides a pathway to carpal tunnel relief and recovery. Under the expert care of Marina Doktorman, L.Ac., patients receive customized treatments designed to restore comfort and improve overall quality of life as part of a comprehensive plan for managing CTS.
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Marina Doktorman, M.S., L.Ac., is an experienced acupuncturist who obtained her Masters of Acupuncture from the Tri-State College of Acupuncture in New York City in 2001. During her studies, she focused on Chinese Herbology, a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that utilizes herbs to complement acupuncture treatments. Marina is licensed in both New York (NY) and New Jersey (NJ) and holds a Diplomate of Acupuncture from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), indicating her expertise in the field.
Why Pulse Acupuncture?
Experience
Marina Doktorman, L.Ac. has over 20 years of clinical experience.
RELAXATION
At Pulse Acupuncture, we aim to cultivate a spa-like environment.
Comfort
All of our needles are of the highest quality for painless insertion.
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Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel - FAQ
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)?
How can Acupuncture help with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Acupuncture may help by:
– Reducing pain and discomfort
– Decreasing inflammation in the carpal tunnel area
– Improving nerve conduction and function
– Enhancing blood flow to the wrist and hand
Is Acupuncture effective for treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
What does the research say about Acupuncture for CTS?
Contact us
Acupuncture therapy at Pulse Acupuncture Practice, at Clifton, NJ and Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NYC offers unique combination of various cupuncture types for healing on all levels: emotional, spiritual and physical by integrating ancient wisdom of energy healing with modern acupuncture techniques.