Carpal Tunnel Maintenance with Essential Oils
Carpal tunnel syndrome is possibly the most common nerve disorder experienced today. It affects 4 – 10 million Americans. Females are three times more frequently than males to suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome.
Any or all of the following may be a contributing factor for carpal tunnel syndrome:
- Frequent, repetitive, small movements with the hands (such as typing or using a keyboard)
- Frequent, repetitive, grasping movements with the hands
- Joint or bone disease (for example, arthritis, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis)
- Hormonal or metabolic changes (for example, menopause, pregnancy, or thyroid imbalance)
- Changes in blood sugar levels (may be seen with type 2 diabetes)
- Other conditions or injuries of the wrist (for example, strain, sprain, dislocation, break, or swelling and inflammation)
- Family history of carpal tunnel syndrome
These are the most common symptoms:
- Weakness when gripping objects with one or both hands
- Pain or numbness in one or both hands
- “Pins and needles” feeling in the fingers
- Swollen feeling in the fingers
- Burning or tingling in the fingers, especially the thumb and the index and middle fingers
- Pain or numbness that is worse at night, interrupting sleep
Essential Oils for Carpal Tunnel
When using essential oils for carpal tunnel, remember that each of us will respond differently as we have different contributing factors and different symptoms. It is possible to get relief from just one of the essential oils below but it could be that you need a combination. Trial and error could lead to an individualized routine that is best for you. I recommend trying each individually and/or layering them to find your best approach.
Always use a carrier oil. Doing so will allow you to cover a larger area, reduce evaporation, and increase absorption thereby increasing the effectiveness of your essential oils.
If you discover a combination of them works best, layering could get cumbersome and lead you to skip applications. In this case, consider making a custom roller bottle for yourself. Just add 5 – 10 drops each and top up with a carrier oil for easy and convenient application.
Always bare in mind that small amounts frequently and consistently work best. In a flare up, apply 3-4 times a day. Decrease when symptoms subside but stay on top of pain, don’t chase it!
Lemongrass – supports connective tissue
Frankincense – reduces inflammation
Helichrysum – reduces nerve damage
Marjoram – supports muscle tissue
Copaiba – Nerve and tissue support
AromaTouch – This is otherwise known as the massage blend. It serves to reduce inflammation, increase circulation, and reduce pain.
Deep Blue Rub – pain relief and improved circulation
Thanks for spending this time with me!
Natalie
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