All About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a prevalent condition that afflicts millions of people in the U.S. alone, and is significantly more common in women than men. When the median nerve, located in the wrist, becomes compressed or swells, it can produce a constant or chronic pain and numbness -- symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. The median nerve is responsible for controlling movement and our ability to perceive sensation in our hands.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is often the result of repeatedly performing a task over a long duration, often years. The repetitive nature of such activities as typing, knitting, playing a musical instrument, etc. can aggravate the ligaments and tendons in which the median nerve is located, causing it to distend or be compressed.

Other factors can also engender the onset or aggravate existing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as menopause, or certain conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

1. Cut out excess salt consumption –- it can further inflame already existing symptoms by contributing to water retention.

2. If possible, take breaks often when performing repetitive tasks with your hands to stretch and flex them.

3. Placing an ice-bag on the aggravated areas can help alleviate the pain.

4. Avoid alcohol as it dehydrates tissue cells.

Although there are several interventionist options for carpal tunnel syndrome, such as surgery and cortisone injections, various studies have shown that a deficiency in vitamin B6 is often associated with the condition. Vitamin B6 is a crucial nutrient needed for healthy nerve tissues, and harbors anti-inflammatory properties that may help counter swelling.

Indeed, according to the "Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements" by Michael Murray, N.D. "In double-blind placebo controlled studies…the University of Texas...successfully treated hundreds of patients suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome with Vitamin B6. It may take as long as 3 months to produce a benefit, but vitamin B6 is effective in many cases."

World famous Reader's Digest, moreover, in their extensive tome "The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs" point out that the enzyme Bromelain could be highly beneficial for carpal tunnel syndrome, due to its potent anti-inflammatory effects, along with Tumeric, an herb that belongs to the ginger family. They believe both substances, if taken together, will enhance each other's efficacy.

In addition, we believe one should also include vitamins E and C, both powerful antioxidants, and the entire B-vitamin complex, due to their synergistic nature.