Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a medical condition results from compression of
the median nerve in a tunnel at the base of the wrist. It is usually characterized by a) numbness and tingling of the fingers, b) a burning pain that awakens the patient and is relieved by shaking or massage, and c) muscle weakness and shrinkage in advanced cases.
CTS affects women more than men and life time risk is 10%.
Potential risk factors:
- Fracture or dislocation of the wrist.
- Obesity.
- Pregnancy.
- Diabetes.
- Low function thyroid.
- Osteoarthritis of the wrist.
- Rheumatoid arthritis.
- Gout.
- Acromegaly.
- Medications: corticosteroids, and birth control pills.
- Nutritional deficiency, especially vitamin B6.
- Tumors or cysts of the wrist.
- Renal failure.
- Occupational-related: any occupation that require repetitive and excessive movements of the wrist.
Nutritional Supports: 
Restricted Foods:
- Greasy foods.
- Fried foods.
- Foods high in saturated fat, as they may slow down blood circulation.
- Too much salt.
- Inflammation-aggravating foods: dairy products and red meats.
Recommended Foods:
- Plenty of water: 2 liters a day. Dehydration may worsen symptoms.
- Whole grains.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Fish.
- Flaxseeds, chia, and hemp seeds.
- Pineapple. It contains bromelain that reduces inflammation.
Recommended Supplements:
- Vitamin B6: 200 – 300 mg a day.
- Bromelain: 1500 mg a day.
- French Maritime Pine Bark Extract: 100 – 300 mg a day. This phytonutrient reduces inflammation and improves blood circulation.
- Grape Seed Extract: 50 – 200 mg a day.
- Magnesium: 200 – 400 mg a day.
- White Willow Bark: 400 – 800 mg a day. It contains salicin that reduces pain and inflammation.
- Ginkgo Biloba: 120 – 240 mg a day. It may improve blood circulation.
- Vitamin B – Complex: A high-potency
Miscellaneous Suggestions:
- Wrist brace or splint.
- Alternating hot and cold water immersion: this technique is claimed to improve circulation to the area. Use the pattern of 30-3-30-3, which means put your hand past the wrist in cold water for 30 seconds followed by 3 minutes in hot water. Repeat this maneuver for 3 times in the morning, 3 times in the afternoon, and 3 times in the night.
- Stretches of the wrist and median nerve.
- Acupuncture.
- Liver detoxification.
