Does Diet Help Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the median nerve that follows a path through narrow tubes or tunnels around the wrist. Various causes can mean that the tunnels can compress and infringe on the nerve and thus cause the pain and discomfort associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Causes of this are typically repetitive strain injuries, from work or even from sports that use a lot of wrist movement.
Another cause of the syndrome is inflammation. This means that if you are a regular sufferer of the condition, a change in diet may help you.
So what foods help reduce inflammation?
1. Walnuts
Walnuts contain alpha lipoic acid which is an omega 3 fatty acid and helps reduce inflammation.
2. Pineapple
Pineapple contains bromelain which is an enzyme that helps to get inflammation down as well as improving digestion. Note though, one downside of this is that it can thin the blood at higher concentration levels (like if taken as a supplement). Just something to be aware of if you suffer from already thin blood.
3. Spinach
Rich in vitamin B6 and can even help reduce pain, spinach is another food to add to your arsenal.
4. Fatty Fish
Salmon and other fatty fish such as tuna are fantastic foods for inflammation as they contain omega 3 fats, primarily EPA and DHA. Both these fats help decrease inflammation. You can even use supplements, although not more than the recommended 1000mg dose. Incidentally to get that 1000mg of EPA and DHA, it requires around 2000 – 4000mg of fish oil. Fun fact of the day.
5. Tumeric
Another great anti inflammatory is turmeric which is typically in curry sauces and mustard. Combine this with ginger or black pepper and its properties are even further enhanced.
As ever, do discuss this with your doctor and chiropractor. While these foods do contain some great anti inflammatory properties, they can also thin your blood, so if you already suffer from thinning blood or are even going in for surgery, discuss with your primary first.
There are of course many other foods and supplements you can take to further help with inflammation issues, and of course not only will your carpal tunnel benefit, but other areas of your body too.
So next time you come and see us here at Warwick Chiropractic, ask us what we recommend in terms of diet and we can help you. Also, check out our nutritional dispensary for further supplements or benefits to help relieve your pain and condition.
