Essential Oils for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a nerve disorder in the arms and hands. It is caused by pressure on the median nerve when it becomes compressed. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in the wrist surrounded by bone and ligaments, that the median nerve passes through. Depending on the anatomy of the wrist, certain health problems or repetitive hand motions – may cause this condition to manifest. Symptoms (which start gradually) may include:
- Weakness – this may be experienced in the hand, due to numbness or the weakness of the thumbs muscles
- Numbness or Tingling – this may occur in the fingers or hand, travelling from the wrist up the arm
There are many types of treatment options available that the doctor may recommend. As a supportive treatment, essential oils are wonderful in easing certain symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Essential oils may help to: – ease muscle weakness – improve circulation – provide some pain relief – relax tight and tense ligaments
Useful Essential Oils for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Lavender – helps to relax the muscles, and provide pain relief. It is also quite a calming and soothing oil. It was used in this carpal tunnel study
Wintergreen – will help to reduce joint and bone pain, and provide cooling sensation to the area
Eucalyptus – helps to gently ease pain by improving the circulation
Marjoram – will ease pain and aid in releasing tension
How to use
Mix together equal parts of the applicable essential oils (as described above) – you can choose around 3 or 4 different ones to mix together. Add a base oil to this – as a general rule, use 5 drops of essential oil to each 1 teaspoon of base oil (for a base oil – avacado, jojoba, sweet almond, coconut, and olive, are good choices, or any vegetable oil will do). Store this mixture in a glass bottle to use when required.
Massage: Massage the oil blend into the affected area around twice a day. Before using for the first time, please do a skin patch test, to check for sensitivity.
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