Homeopathic Remedies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Also indexed as: Repetitive Strain Injury
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition of the forearm and wrist that comes from overuse or
stress, causing nerve compression that leads to weakness, pain, and restricted movement.
Working at a keyboard, typing, carpentry, and other tasks that require repetitive motions of
the wrists and hands are common causes. Sensations of numbness, tingling, and burning may be
felt, and pain or weakness can affect the arm and neck. Homeopathic remedies often help to
relieve discomfort and limitation.
For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this section. See also
“Using Homeopathy With Professional Guidance” in What Is Homeopathy?
Arnica: This remedy can be used for flare-ups of inflammation or new injuries caused
by repetitive use of the fingers and wrists. The area feels bruised and sore, and cramping may
occur. External application of herbal Arnica lotion or ointment may help to ease the
swelling and soreness, while other remedies are used internally.
Calcarea phosphorica: When this remedy is indicated, pain is felt in the bones and
nerves of the wrists and arms, and stiffness and discomfort may also involve the neck. Cold
and drafts often aggravate discomfort. The person may feel irritable and sensitive, or weak
from overwork and pain.
Causticum: This remedy is useful when carpal tunnel syndrome is long-lasting or
recurring. The area feels bruised, with drawing, burning pains. Stiffness and a feeling of
weakness and contraction may be felt in the muscles of the hand and forearm. The condition is
worse from getting cold and improved by warm applications. People who need this remedy often
feel best in rainy weather.
Guaiacum: This remedy is indicated in carpal tunnel syndrome when the wrists
(especially the left) are stiff with burning pain, and significantly relieved by applying ice
or ice-cold water. Because of so much tightness, the person may feel a need to stretch the
wrist, despite the pain.
Hypericum: This remedy may be useful if sharp or shooting pains are felt extending
from the wrist. Hypericum is known for its soothing effect when body parts containing
many nerves are injured, as well as in other traumatic nerve conditions.
Rhus toxicodendron: This remedy is useful when stiffness and pain are worse on
initial motion and improve as movement continues. Overuse may lead to soreness, pain, and
further stiffening. Discomfort is relieved by warmth and worse in cold, damp weather.
Ruta graveolens: This remedy is indicated when overuse of joints and irritation of
nerves lead to tremendous stiffness. A feeling of bruising and lameness may be present, even
when the wrist is allowed to rest. Weakness in the arms and wrists, especially after
repetitive tasks causing wear and tear on the joints and nerves, often indicates
Ruta.
Viola odorata: This remedy is useful for many conditions that involve the wrist and
hand, especially the right. Pain and numbness may extend from the wrist through the hand and
into the fingers, and the hands and arms may tremble. Symptoms are worse from getting
cold.
Homeopathy Dosage Directions
Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where
self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X,
6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually
printed on the label.
Many homeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and
wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If
improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The
frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be
required several times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and
in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient.
If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy.
For more information, including references, see What is Homeopathy? and Understanding Homeopathic Potencies.
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purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro),
clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may
not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or
before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2005.
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