As with most problems of the body, there are a multitude of causes and treatments and rarely is there a magic bullet for anything, including carpal tunnel syndrome. When this condition is suspected, a doctor of chiropractic will look at how the wrist and neck are aligned to see if there is an irritation or compression on the nerve that passes through the carpal tunnel. Your doctor will also use a detailed examination of both the wrist and neck to see if your carpal tunnel symptoms may actually be referred from your neck.
Most patients will benefit from other aspects of a comprehensive approach, such as specific stretches or exercises and appreciating how our lifestyle choices can also influence symptoms.
While excessive weight is a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome (obese and overweight patients have a greater risk for developing the condition), there are also other dietary approaches that may help alleviate your symptoms. One of these is vitamin therapy, specifically vitamin B6. This is an important vitamin for many complex bodily functions, including maintaining a strong immune system. It also supports glucose or blood sugar functions.
A 2007 meta-review found that that although the research is weak on the subject, there appears to be modest evidence that supplementing the diet with vitamin B6 can help some patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. This effect has to be balanced against any known risks, which appear to be very rare and not severe. The recommended daily dose is about 100-200 mg and this can be taken for a few months with a gradual reduction in dose after this time. Other authorities believe it's better to take the B vitamins in a complex form rather than one vitamin in isolation. There may be some biochemical synergy to taking the various B vitamin forms together, which is how they are often sold in stores. You can also get B6 from natural food sources such as potatoes, garbanzo beans, and fortified cereals. Special note: Older adults and those who consume excessive alcohol can be at risk for developing a vitamin B6 deficiency.
