Introduction
The Carpal Tunnel is the space found in the wrist between the flexor retinaculum of the wrist and the carpal bones. All the nerves, arteries, veins and nerves of the hand pass through this rather crowded area. Unfortunately, the tissues in this space swell sometimes and pinch the median nerve which causes pain.
About
One of the recognition signals of Carpal Tunnel is a sharp pain felt when the wrist is flexed. There may be a tingling feeling in the hands and fingers as well. Some patients complain of a burning feeling or numbness of the first three fingers of the hand. Stretching of the fingers may give some immediate relief. Sometimes pain is felt close to the compression site in the forearm and shoulder. The pain may be more severe at night.
The problem is caused by a large number of nerves, including the important median nerve, all pushed in together in a small arch of bones called the Carpal Tunnel. Normally there is no problem so long as the fibrous tissue supporting these bones do their job properly. Sometimes the tissue becomes damaged for a number of reasons and is unable to support the walls of the tunnel. It becomes too narrow for all the nerves, veins etc., to pass easily. They become compressed resulting in a condition called Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. One of the first signs is a numbness or a tingling in the wrist. Other people have actual pain when the wrist is used. The hand involved seems to lose its strength.
More women than men seem to experience the pain of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Some women suffer from the problem because of constantly carrying heavy shopping bags. Other ailments which may be a cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include excess bodyweight, hypothyroidism (under active thyroid), and pregnancy. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome must be diagnosed by a Doctor and suitable treatment given.
Cause
A possible cause of this complaint may be traced to rheumatoid arthritis, but the more common reason probably is overuse of the wrist and hand. This is understandable as the more the wrist is flexed doing the same job, day after day, the more the Carpal Tunnel fibrous tissue is under stress. Some typists and pianists suffer from this ailment. Recent studies have revealed that typing heavily on a keyboard can cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and office workers who want to avoid this injury should be trained to reduce the use of excessive typing force.
Health care
A Doctor will diagnose this problem. Surgery is one solution and your Doctor will be the one to advise on this. Sometimes a cortisone injection may be given by your Doctor.
Diet tips
Generally it is thought that there is no strong dietary advice that will make any considerable difference to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
If the patient is overweight, a diet lower in fats is suggested.
As a lack of vitamin B6 may be a contributory factor, foods which are high in this vitamin may be eaten. They include, brewers' yeast, tuna, salmon, mackerel, chicken and walnuts.
For some reason, however, it may be considered a good idea to avoid foods containing yellow dyes. A moderate intake of protein foods is recommended.
Occasionally, a low-salt diet is recommended. Avoid salty foods and snacks e.g., salted peanuts.
Vits/mins/herbs
- Vitamin B6 deficiency is a common finding in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Studies have shown that supplementation with vitamin B6 (usually in doses of 50-200 mg a day) relieves the symptoms of the syndrome.
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid slow-release) stimulates the growth of collagen (connective tissue found in tendons) and may help to support and strengthen the carpal tunnel area.
- Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil and flaxseed oil) have anti-inflammatory properties. This may help to relieve the pain of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a herb with anti-inflammatory properties which may help to reduce pain.
- Marigold (Calendula officinalis) has also been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.
Notes
Another physical problem, tennis elbow, can sometimes mimic the disease.
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