By Introduction
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition affecting many people globally. Compression of the median nerve in the wrist causes pain, numbness and other symptoms in the wrist and hand. Traditional methods such as drug therapy and splints are used to manage CTS symptoms. But, an increasing number of people are exploring acupressure as a complementary therapy for relief.
Acupressure is a type of massage technique. It helps promote well-being and reduce pain by applying pressure to certain points on the body. This pressure relieves tension in tendons, muscles and ligaments close to the skin. This tension relief strengthens hands and spine, reducing CTS symptoms.
This article will explain how acupressure works for carpal tunnel syndrome. It will also discuss benefits and drawbacks. And, what to consider before trying it out. Whether you have mild or severe CTS, learning how acupressure can support your hands and spine may reduce pain and improve quality of life.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a medical condition that affects the median nerve. This nerve runs from the forearm to the wrist and hand, causing pain, numbness, and tingling. CTS is more common in those who do repetitive tasks and can be caused by an underlying medical issue. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is necessary to avoid chronic pain or disability.
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway between two bones at the top of the wrist. Known as carpals, they are supported by ligaments and tendons. When pressure builds up due to swelling or overuse, the median nerve can be compressed, leading to CTS symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, or burning sensations. These may occur when typing on a computer or gripping something for a long time.
Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition. It is caused by the median nerve in the hand and arm becoming compressed. The carpal tunnel is a small passageway of bone and ligament at the palm’s base. When swollen or agitated by repetitive movements, trauma to the wrist or bones, or medical conditions, it can pinch and compress the median nerve. This can lead to pain, weakness in hand movements, tingling, numbness, and other symptoms.
The causes of CTS can be split into lifestyle and medical factors. Lifestyle causes are:
- Poor ergonomics when using computers or phones
- Repeating tasks with hands up or outstretched
- Using vibrating tools
- Long drives
- Crafting with scissors
Medical causes include:
- Inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis
- Fluid retention due to hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause
- Diabetes which affects blood sugar and vascular flow
- Thyroid conditions which affect hormones.
Benefits of Acupressure
Acupressure is a method of manual therapy, originating from Chinese tradition. In recent years, it has grown in popularity due to its claimed benefits for various conditions, for instance, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
The concept of acupressure is founded on the notion that the body is composed of multiple energy pathways. These pathways are linked to particular points on the body, known as acupoints. These acupoints can be manipulated with physical pressure, like pressing with fingers, knuckles, or small sticks. By pressing the points regularly, it is thought to boost circulation, and therefore, promote healing for the entire body.
Research has found that pressure on certain acupoints can help:
- Reduce pain in CTS
- Widen range of motion in affected areas
- Ease inflammation and numbness in hands and wrists
- Improve blood flow between nerves in the spine and arms
- Strengthen muscles and bones in the area
- Increase strength in other activities, such as strength training or activities with repetitive movement
- Reduce overall stress levels for improved relaxation
Acupressure Techniques for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a typical issue. It brings numbness and pain to the hands and wrists. Fortunately, acupressure can reduce CTS symptoms. Doing it regularly brings positive results.
This article will explain how acupressure helps with CTS. Plus, we’ll give some useful acupressure techniques for those with CTS.
Massage the Wrist
Massaging your wrists is a great carpal tunnel treatment! It can reduce tingling, numbness and joint pain.
Start by lightly squeezing the margins of your wrist with both hands. Then, use your thumbs to press into the underside of your arm muscles that connect directly to your wrists. Rotate your thumbs back and forth while pressing. This should feel soothing and relieve tension.
If massaging the area isn’t comfortable, press each thumb into either side of the web between each thumb and forefinger for 30 seconds. Lastly, use light upward strokes with all four fingers moving up from your wrists to just slightly above them. Feel free to take breaks if needed!
Apply Pressure to the Thumb and Index Finger
Extend your thumb and index finger. Make an “OK” sign with your other hand. Put gentle pressure on the top of the distance between your two fingers, where they intersect to form an L-shape. Hold this point for 2 minutes. Do this with both hands for best results.
You may feel a pleasant sensation in your thumbs and index fingers. This can radiate to other parts of your hand or up your arm or down into your legs. It is soothing and numbing, helping you stay relaxed while typing.
Acupressure techniques provide relief from carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. It can also be used to address overuse injuries related to sports activities like tennis or golf. The tension in these areas is quickly relieved when acupressure targets key areas in the hands and forearms.
Stimulate the Spine
The spine is important for carpal tunnel syndrome. Stimulation of the spine is vital to create balance in the body and improve the health of the hands.
Grasp both sides of the lower back with one hand. Move the other hand towards the navel, then back up to the spine. Move fingers in a scratching-type motion. This helps clear blockages from the spine and create symmetry in the muscles.
Repeat this action up and down the spine. Pay extra attention to any areas that are tender or have energy blockages. Use acupressure on the base of the spine at the sacrum and S2 points. Stimulating these points helps balance the nervous system.
Conclusion
Finally, acupressure can be an awesome way to keep your hands and spine healthy. Plus, it can help with carpal tunnel symptoms. The techniques above are made to fit into your everyday life. Applying gentle pressure to the palms, wrists, arm and mid-back area can help your body heal itself.
Take 15-20 minutes out of your day to do this self-care exercise. This will bring you closer to perfect balance and health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is acupressure?
A: Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves applying pressure with fingers, thumbs, or specialized tools to specific points on the body to alleviate pain or enhance general well-being.
Q: Can acupressure help with carpal tunnel syndrome?
A: Yes, acupressure can be an effective way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. It may help to release tension in the muscles and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
Q: How do you perform acupressure for carpal tunnel syndrome?
A: There are several acupressure points that can be targeted for carpal tunnel syndrome, but the most common ones are located on the hand, wrist, and forearm. You can apply pressure to these points using your fingers or a small acupressure ball or tool.
Q: Is acupressure safe?
A: Yes, acupressure is generally considered safe when performed correctly by a qualified practitioner or when practiced on yourself with proper instruction. However, it may not be appropriate for certain individuals, such as pregnant women or people with certain medical conditions.
Q: Can acupressure help with other conditions besides carpal tunnel syndrome?
A: Yes, acupressure has been used for centuries to help alleviate a wide range of health issues, including headaches, back pain, digestive problems, and anxiety, among others.
Q: Is acupressure the same as acupuncture?
A: No, acupressure and acupuncture are different techniques, although they share some similarities. Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, while acupressure relies on pressure applied with fingers or tools to the same points.
