Carpal Tunnel Syndromeaccording to TCM

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition characterized by numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and arm. The syndrome is named after the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist, through which the median nerve to the hand and some tendons run.

When this tunnel becomes narrowed or when the tissues surrounding the flexor tendons swell, pressure on the median nerve can occur, leading to the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition is often the result of repetitive motions or conditions that induce swelling in the wrist and can significantly impact daily activities.

How does TCM view Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a distinct perspective on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, viewing it as a manifestation of underlying imbalances and blockages in the flow of Qi and Blood through the channels of the arm. TCM theory suggests that symptoms arise when external pathogenic factors such as Cold, Wind, or Damp invade the wrist area, or from internal factors like Qi And Blood Stagnation or Phlegm accumulation.

Diagnosing the precise pattern of disharmony is essential in TCM, as treatments are tailored to correct these specific imbalances, aiming to restore the smooth flow of Qi and Blood and alleviate symptoms.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome According to TCM

In TCM, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is commonly attributed to factors that lead to Qi And Blood Stagnation or the accumulation of Phlegm within the channels and joints of the wrist. Such Stagnation can result from repetitive strain or injury, leading to the constriction of the flow of vital substances through the wrist's narrow passage.

Additionally, external pathogenic factors like Cold or Damp can invade the wrist, exacerbating the condition by further obstructing the flow of Qi and Blood. Addressing these underlying causes through TCM practices aims to relieve the pressure on the median nerve by dispelling pathogenic factors, promoting circulation, and eliminating stagnation.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

For the treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, TCM emphasizes the use of formulas that regulate Blood and dispel stagnation, thereby alleviating the pressure on the median nerve and reducing symptoms. One such formula is Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang, which includes Peach Kernels (Tao Ren) as a key ingredient.

This formula is specifically designed to treat patterns of Phlegm in the Channels, joints, and muscles, as well as Qi And Blood Stagnation, by invigorating the Blood and breaking up stagnation. Through these targeted treatments, TCM aims to restore the harmonious flow of Qi and Blood, providing relief from the discomfort and impairment associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

See more details below about Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang, a herbal formula used to address carpal tunnel syndrome.

TCM Herbs for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address carpal tunnel syndrome, organized by herb category.