Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a painful progressive condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. The bottom and sides of this tunnel are formed by wrist (carpal) bones, which are between the arm bones (ulna and radius) and the metacarpals (bases of the fingers). The top of the tunnel is covered by a strong band of connective tissue called the transverse carpal ligament, located on the underside or dorsum of the wrist.

Chinese medicine for carpal tunnel syndrome treatments are mostly viewed as an overtaxation or traumatic injury conditon, outside of course chronic disease factors. Wrist pain and numbness and tingling are the two main symptoms treated. Numbness and tingling are the result of the undernourishment of the tissues or Deficiency in Chinese medicine and can be accompanied by dizziness and palpitations. As Blood returns to the Liver (TCM and Western) at night numbness and tingling are usually made worse in the evening time. Plus at the end of the day is when we are most tired anyway from using the wrists. The pain can stem from the patterns of Blood Stasis or Deficiency. Wind Damp Bi syndrome conditions can have migrating pain and be made worse with dampness or/and cold weather.

Acupuncture for carpal tunnel syndrome can work well especially for mild to moderate cases. It can help speed recovery after surgery if it is required by helping to remove blood stasis and help bring nourishment to the general area along with using Chinese herbal formulations. Either way a patient's health constitution is always given consideration when administering treatment.