Non-Surgical and Non-Medication Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and reduced hand strength. While surgery and medication are effective treatments, many individuals prefer non-invasive and non-pharmacological methods to alleviate their symptoms. This comprehensive guide outlines various physical and mechanical interventions, pain relief strategies, and alternative therapies that can help manage CTS effectively.

Physical and Mechanical Interventions

1. Wearing a Brace

This method, also known as splinting, is a cheap and non-invasive way to treat CTS. By applying a lightweight splint to your wrist and lower arm, the movement of your wrist is minimized, reducing pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling sensations.

Description: Place a splint under your wrist and lower arm, fastening it around these areas to keep your wrist in a neutral position.

Benefit: Reduces symptoms and promotes nerve recovery.

Prescription: Follow the duration prescribed by your orthopedic specialist.

2. Going to Physiotherapy

This specialized rehabilitation process uses various techniques to restore the use of your upper arm. Hand therapy, performed by licensed physiotherapists, includes:

Manual Manipulation: Realigns affected joints and bones with controlled movements.

Massage Therapy: Soothes and relaxes tense muscles in the hand and wrist.

Kinesiology Tape: Applies special tape to promote recovery and relieve pain and inflammation.

3. Exercising the Hand

Specific hand exercises can enhance the function of your affected hand and reduce the occurrence of CTS symptoms:

Nerve Gliding Exercise:

Step-by-step: Bend and extend your wrist, rotate your palm, and stretch your thumb.

Frequency: Repeat five times, three to four times a day.

Tendon Gliding Exercise (Rubber Band Stretch):

Step-by-step: Use a thick rubber band to stretch your fingers.

Frequency: Perform 10 times during one hour, increasing resistance if possible.

Pain Relief Strategies

1. Rest and Bracing

Resting your affected wrist and hand is crucial for healing. Fasting for a minimum of two weeks can help.

Wearing a Splint: This mechanical intervention keeps your wrist in a neutral position, reducing stress and strain.

Avoiding Wrist Movements: Follow medical advice to skip activities that bend your wrist, like typing.

2. Cold and Warm Compresses

Cold compresses are effective during the acute phase (less than six weeks) to reduce swelling and inflammation, while warm compresses are beneficial during the chronic phase (more than six weeks) to increase blood flow and speed up recovery.

Cold Compress: Apply for 15 to 20 minutes, wrapped in a hand towel.

Warm Compress: Apply for 15 to 20 minutes, wrapped in a hand towel.

Paraffin Wax Bath: Apply therapeutic heat to your wrist and hand, keeping it on for 15 to 20 minutes.

Medications

Medications, while not non-invasive, can provide temporary relief from CTS symptoms:

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Combat pain and inflammation, available over-the-counter.

Topical Anesthetic Creams: Apply EMLA cream (lidocaine and prilocaine) to relieve pain.

Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and pain, available as injections or oral tablets.

Alternative Therapies

For those seeking non-traditional methods, these therapies may offer relief:

Low-Level Laser Therapy: Performed by a medical practitioner to reduce pain and promote healing.

Yoga: Regular yoga sessions focusing on upper body postures can strengthen and stretch joints, improving symptoms in two months.

Conclusion: Non-surgical and non-medication treatments can be effective in managing CTS. By incorporating physical interventions, pain relief strategies, and alternative therapies, individuals can experience symptom relief without the need for surgery or medication.