Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome affects about 3 in 1,000 people in the United States each year. It is one of the most common hand conditions. If you develop weakness, numbness, and/or tingling in your hand or wrist, turn to Twin Acupuncture in the New Springville neighborhood of New York City’s Staten Island borough. Acupuncture specialist Kerri Kuhlsen, L.Ac., c.SMA, offers an array of holistic treatments to ease pain and restore hand and wrist function. To learn more, schedule an evaluation at Twin Acupuncture by phone or request one online today.

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a musculoskeletal condition of the hand and wrist. Irritation or extra pressure on the median nerve running along your carpal tunnel (the space in your wrist bones allowing nerves, ligaments, and tendons to pass through to your hand) causes it.

See Kerri at Twin Acupuncture at the first sign of carpal tunnel syndrome to ease your discomfort without harsh medication or invasive surgery.

What symptoms does carpal tunnel syndrome cause?

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms include:

• Numbness in your fingers, hand, and/or wrist
• Hand or wrist discomfort
• Tingling
• Weakness
• Trouble with gripping
• Electric shock feeling in your hand, wrist, and/or forearm
• Pins and needles sensation

The symptoms you experience could develop gradually, getting worse with time. You might first notice symptoms at night that wake you up or when you hold a phone, newspaper, or steering wheel.

What are the risk factors for carpal tunnel syndrome?

While the cause of carpal tunnel syndrome isn’t always clear, its risk factors include:

• Wrist dislocations or fractures
• Arthritic changes
• Diabetes or other nerve-damaging conditions
• Being female
• Benign over 40
• Inflammatory conditions
• Obesity
• Some medications
• Thyroid disorders
• Kidney problems
• Lymphedema (swelling caused by a buildup of lymph fluid)
• Body fluid changes, especially fluid retention
• Using vibrating workplace tools
• Repetitive movements
• Sprains
• Ganglion cysts (benign fluid-filled sacs in the wrist and hands, sometimes in the feet and ankles)
• Pregnancy

Prevention measures include taking breaks from repetitive motions, using good posture and proper form while typing, and choosing a comfortable computer mouse.

How is carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome requires discussing your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms, and completing a physical exam. You might need to undergo nerve testing as well as X-rays, ultrasound, an MRI, or another imaging procedure.

Which holistic solutions treat carpal tunnel syndrome?

Treatments available at Twin Acupuncture to ease carpal tunnel syndrome pain and stimulate natural healing include:

• Splinting
• Physical therapy
• Yoga
• Acupuncture
• Cupping therapy
• Dry needling
• Electroacupuncture
• Combined treatments

Kerri personalizes a carpal tunnel treatment plan that will provide the most relief. She might suggest several treatment sessions to maximize your results, easing pain and immobility long-term without medication, injections, or surgery. She follows up to ensure that your treatment is effective.

Schedule a carpal tunnel evaluation today at Twin Acupuncture by phone or request one online to determine which treatment best suits you.