Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Essential Oils & Pain - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome




Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a nerve disorder that affects the wrist and hand. It causes swelling, tingling, loss of strength and pain. There are small bones inside the wrists that form a carpal tunnel or a grove. Tendons and the median nerve that controls the sensations and feelings in the palm side of your hand  passes through this tunnel to get from the forearm to the hand. When the tissues inside the tunnel swell and become irritated  they pinch the wrist nerve causing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. 

Repetitive movements of the hands and fingers for a prolonged time without rest can put pressure on the nerve. Hormonal changes that causes fluid retention can also cause pressure and swelling in the carpal tunnel. Inflammatory arthritis in the wrist can also cause CTS. 

Bicycle riders are especially prone to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome due to the pressure and repetitive use of their wrists. Golfers and tennis players are also prone to developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Some researcher are also concerned because children that play a lot of video game are also prone to developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

So what are some of the symptoms?
Numbness, tingling, burning of the wrist and hand, with the index and fingers and thumb most affected. It starts slowly to eventually lead to weakness in the hand. As it gets worse the pain may move up towards the arm.

In this post we will discuss CTS and essential oils, but I don't look at aromatherapy as a stand alone therapy. Dietary changes, supplements, herbs, homeopathic remedies, chiropractors and acupuncture should also be considered.

Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and diuretic oils are the best choices when dealing with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. 

Here are some examples of various oils that have historically been used:
Anti-inflammatory oils: Peppermint, Roman and German chamomile, helichrysum, eucalyptus, ginger, basil

Analgesic: Marjoram, basil, lemongrass, eucalyptus, ginger, rosemary, black pepper

Diuretic: Helichrysum, cypress, eucalyptus



Important
This information is for educational purposes only, and is not meant to diagnose or prescribe.  If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffer from a medical condition, consult with your health care practitioner prior to using essential oils. Be careful when using essential oils with hormonal activity and don’t hesitate to contact a professional. Make sure that you look over the safefy information before you start using essential oils.


Before you leave:



I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.
Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 
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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 

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