How do I know if I have Carpal Tunnel? What can I do about it?

Compiled by Jan Bowers

Carpal Tunnel is a painful condition that results when the nerves in the wrist become irritated. Nerves pass through a rigid tunnel formed by the wrist bones; if tissues within this tunnel swell for any reason, they press and pinch the nerves.

Deemed the "occupational hazard of the 21st century," carpal tunnel is now common among office workers who spend their days with wrists cocked at awkward angles to type. Unfortunately, as we all become increasingly tied to electronic devices, most of us spend serious amounts of time typing on key pads that strain our wrists. The condition can also be sports-related.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel include tingling and numbness in the hand, fingers, and wrist; swelling of the fingers; dry palms; or pain in the wrist, forearms, and hand. Symptoms can also be felt in the upper arm, elbow, shoulder, or neck. Pregnant women, women taking birth control pills,and those with an underactive thyroid all exhibit increased risk.

The conventional approach to relieving Carpal Tunnel includes splinting the wrist, avoiding activities that increase pain, icing the wrist and hand, and anti-inflammatories. In extreme cases, cortisone shots or surgery may be recommended.

There are, however, other options. A "carpal tunnel blend" of therapeutic-grade essential oils from Young Living Essential Oils includes 5 drops wintergreen, 3 drops cypress, 1 drop peppermint, 2 drops marjoram, and 3 drops myrrh. 2-4 drops of the mixture can be applied dierctly to the affected area 3-5 times daily, and amplified by the use of a cold compress 2-3 times daily. Deep Relief or PanAway are recommended for pain control. Nutritional supplementation will most likely be necessary to strengthen the nervous system, and could include supplements like Sulfurzyme, Mega Cal, or Mineral Essence.