If you experience pain in your hands and wrists or numbness in your fingers, you are probably dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
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According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, CTS is most commonly caused by a strained nerve in the wrist.
Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The tissues surrounding the median nerve of the hand swell and press on the nerve, which results in weakness, numbness, and pain.
This condition has to be treated because otherwise its symptoms will persist and worsen over a few weeks or years. The insulation on the nerve can even lead to a permanent damage.
When the symptoms of CTS appear, they have to be immediately treated in order to prevent any additional discomfort and irreversible damage.
While your doctor is likely to recommend you to wear a splint or to receive corticosteroid injections, there are some natural ways in which you can alleviate the pain and discomfort. Here are 6 home remedies for treating carpal tunnel syndrome.
Pineapple
The pineapple is excellent for reducing the pain caused by CTS. This tropical fruit contains bromelain, a powerful enzyme which is noted for its ability to break down the inflammatory proteins. A regular consumption of pineapple can help you to rapidly heal this syndrome.
Walnuts
Due to their rich content of omega-3 fatty acids, the walnuts are extremely effective in relieving inflammation. If you notice any CTS symptoms, you should start consuming a handful of walnuts on a daily basis.
You can include them in a salad, or you can add them to a cup of yogurt. Also, you can crush the walnuts and use them as a substitute for breadcrumbs when baking chicken or fish filets.
Whole Grains
The whole grains are rich in magnesium. This mineral plays an important role in the nerve function and muscle relaxation.
In order to ease the pain and numbness in your hands, you should consume whole grains on a daily basis. Other great sources of magnesium are green vegetables and legumes.
Apart from following a magnesium-rich diet, you should consider taking magnesium supplements.
Potatoes
The potatoes are one of the best sources of vitamin B6. This vitamin is involved in over 100 enzyme reactions, some of which are related to relieving the symptoms of CTS.
The vitamin B6 can also be found in the fish, poultry, and most of the fruits, with the exception of citrus.
Heat
The heat is one of the most effective natural remedies that can help you to rapidly ease the pain and reduce the inflammation.
Soak your hands and wrists in warm or hot water for 12 to 15 minutes. Do this every night before going to bed. This method will reduce the likelihood of feeling any pain during the night.
Ice
Certain people respond better to ice than they do to heat. Wrap an ice pack in a thin towel and apply it to your wrists.
Let it stay on your wrists for 10 minutes. Repeat the process every hour until the pain disappears completely.