If you've been experiencing numbness, pain, or tingling in your hand, forearm, or wrist, it could be carpal tunnel syndrome. These symptoms can occur when there is pressure on the median nerve caused by swelling. Pregnancy, illnesses such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and hypothyroidism, or simply making the same hand movements over and over can cause this swelling. Although it is not life-threatening, carpal tunnel syndrome can impact your daily activities if it's not treated. Fortunately, most symptoms can be treated with home care. Here are some tips to help relieve your pain.
- Temporarily cease activities that cause numbness and pain. If the activity is part of your job, such as typing, rest your wrist as often as possible. Also, be sure your wrists are positioned correctly during computer work so you don't aggravate your symptoms.
- Ice your wrist as needed. You can do this as often as once or twice an hour if it helps reduce the swelling.
- Massage Milkweed Balm. The anti-inflammatory ingredients may help to soothe contact. Since Milkweed Balm is made with natural ingredients, it is safe to use as often as needed, but it is especially helpful at night before bed and in the morning before you engage in activities.
- Wear a wrist splint at night to take the pressure off your median nerve.
- Implement a gentle yoga routine to stretch and strengthen your wrists. With proper alignment, yoga can ease pressure on your nerves and reduce symptoms. There are also specific carpal tunnel stretches you can incorporate into your routine throughout the day.
If symptoms are severe, you may need to work with your doctor and/or physical therapist to get the right treatment. Most people can avoid invasive treatment options if they address their symptoms early on. In some severe cases, surgery is needed to free the median nerve to relieve pain.