Carpal Tunnel
Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel in North Vancouver
Tingling, numbness or pain in the thumb and fingers — often worse at night or when typing, driving or holding a phone — are common signs of carpal tunnel syndrome. AcuLife Wellness offers acupuncture as complementary support for mild to moderate carpal tunnel symptoms, alongside care from your physician.
Overview
Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve is squeezed as it passes through the wrist. It's linked with repetitive hand and wrist use, pregnancy, diabetes, thyroid conditions and arthritis. Symptoms often start gradually and can progress if pressure on the nerve continues.
A physician's assessment, and sometimes nerve tests, help confirm the diagnosis and its severity. At AcuLife Wellness, we start by learning about your symptoms, your work and any treatment you're using, such as a night splint, before recommending an approach.
Common Symptoms & Experiences
- Tingling or numbness in the thumb, index and middle fingers
- Symptoms that wake you at night or are worse in the morning
- Pain or aching in the wrist and forearm
- A weaker grip or clumsiness, such as dropping things
- Symptoms triggered by typing, driving or holding a phone
How Acupuncture May Be Used
Acupuncture for carpal tunnel usually uses points around the wrist and forearm, together with points along related meridians and in the neck or shoulder where tension contributes, chosen for your presentation. Moxibustion may be used alongside it where appropriate.
Some studies suggest acupuncture may ease symptoms of mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome for some people, but the evidence is limited. Acupuncture is complementary care alongside splinting, changes to how you use your hands, and your physician's advice.
AcuLife's Approach
Hong Ji, R.TCM.P., is a registered TCM practitioner in both Canada and China with 35 years of clinical experience, including nerve-related pain and numbness. A full intake means your plan reflects your symptoms, your work and your daily hand use.
Learn more about Hong JiWhat to Expect
Your first visit includes a conversation about your symptoms, when they occur and any diagnosis or nerve tests, followed by an individualized assessment and treatment. How often you come in is discussed and adjusted as care progresses.
Arm and elbow pain often travel together — see our tennis elbow page for more.
When to Seek Medical Care
See your physician if numbness is constant, if your hand is getting weaker or the muscles at the base of your thumb are shrinking, or if symptoms keep you from sleeping — the nerve may need prompt medical treatment. Sudden numbness or weakness in the arm or face, with slurred speech or confusion, may be a stroke: call 911.
Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for Carpal Tunnel Support in North Vancouver?
Book an appointment with AcuLife Wellness.