Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Holistic Therapy (Part Two)
By Brad Bahr
When it comes to carpal tunnel syndrome if you try one holistic approach and it is not to your liking or it does not work then try something else. For example acupuncture is beneficial at relieving pain but if you are petrified at the thought of needles then you might want to try acupressure instead which is based on similar principles to the former. Instead of needles being applied to specific areas of the body pressure is applied. This special form of pressure is believed to encourage the flow of blood to the hands and wrists and it also helps to relieve numbness as well as swelling. The specific acupressure points for carpal tunnel syndrome include the hands, forearms and wrists.
Chiropractic treatments have been shown to bring relief to some patients as this type of holistic treatment can decrease the symptoms and can also improve the functioning of the wrist and the hands. Chiropractic treatments involve the manipulation of the joints of the body and the soft tissues that take into consideration both the arms as well as the spine. Research studies have borne out the truth that chiropractic treatments are every bit as effective as more traditional methods of pain relief including wearing wrist supports, either in the daytime, nighttime or both, taking ibuprofen, not to mention other forms of treatment.
Feldenkrais is a lesser-known form of holistic medicine that is a type of “movement re-education.” Individuals who decide to participate in Feldenkrais are taught either individually or else in a group setting with others. What is taught is that patients of carpal tunnel syndrome learn how to move their bodies around in a manner that allow them more co-ordination and also improves flexibility and decreases the strain on muscles and joints.
Hellerwork is a type of bodywork that is sometimes recommended for sufferers of carpal tunnel syndrome. Hellerwork is made up of three different elements. The first element is the work of deep tissue. In this case each treatment starts with work on the soft tissues of the wrist and forearm. The second element is becoming knowledgeable about how to maintain proper movement and posture and well as assessing the ergonomic set up of an individual’s workstation (in other words, is the chair too high or too low in relation to the desk, is the monitor too high or too low and so on). The third element is the dialogue or discussion that looks at what emotions and what stresses cause the muscles of the body to lock into specific “holding patterns” and from there how they serve to modify breathing in a negative way.
Yoga is another form of holistic pain relief that has been used to help those who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome. Studies have shown that people who practice the 11 yoga postures twice every week for a period of two months show improvements in their level of pain as well as the strength of their grip. Yoga is a safe practice that is good for people of all ages. It is possible to start at the beginner class and then work up to more advanced classes.
About the author: Brad Bahr is the editor of many health related websites and publications. He has been testing and reviewing nutritional supplements for over 20 years. After trying hundreds of products, he recommends one supplement above all others for renewing health and energy: Learn More
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