Cupping Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief

Using Cupping Therapy to Alleviate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome refers to compression of the median nerve running through the wrist resulting in numbness, tingling and pain in the hand. Cupping therapy may help alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms through several proposed mechanisms.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway surrounded by wrist bones and ligaments through which the median nerve and tendons pass. Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when this space constricts placing pressure on the nerve.

Common causes include repetitive hand motions, wrist trauma or positioning, rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy. Treatment aims to take pressure off the nerve to relieve tingling, numbness, weakness and radiating arm discomfort.

What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping involves placing specialized cups on the skin to create suction drawing underlying tissue slightly into the cup. Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, cupping may enhance blood flow, loosen connective tissue and ease pain.

Types of cupping include:

Dry/Air Cupping using heated glass cups
Wet Cupping combining suction with controlled medicinal bleeding
Silicone Cupping using flexible silicone bell-shaped cups

Session length and location of cup placement depends on the condition being treated.

Proposed Benefits for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Potential ways carpal tunnel cupping therapy may help includes:

Increasing circulation to the affected hand
Draining fluid buildup around nerve
Relaxing tight muscles/fascia contributing to compression
Decreasing inflammation around the carpal tunnel

Research into the efficacy of cupping for carpal tunnel relief remains limited. But many patients anecdotally report reduced symptoms.

What to Expect During Carpal Tunnel Cupping

Consulting with a qualified cupping therapist ensures proper administration along with evaluating any contraindications for individual health circumstances.

The Initial Cupping Visit

The first appointment will likely cover:

Review of medical history, carpal tunnel diagnosis and prior treatments tried
Assessment of numbness/pain location, intensity and aggravating motions
Discussion of cupping procedural steps and sensation to expect
Explanation of recommended self-care between sessions

Carpal Tunnel Specific Protocol

With carpal tunnel syndrome, cups will be placed:

Along the forearm aligning with the median nerve pathway
Around the carpal tunnel area at base of palm near wrist
Potentially on shoulder/neck to address associated trigger points

Silicone cups are often favored for wrist placement given flexibility to mold around the contours.

During the Session

You can expect the therapist to:

Have you sit upright with arm extended on a comfortable surface
Apply oil to enhance cup adhesion and skin mobility
Methodically place cups using pumps to generate suction
Leave cups stationary for 10-20 minutes
Carefully remove cups and clean oil residue off skin

The initial sensation can cause temporary redness and muscle pressure. Report any worrisome discomfort promptly.

Maximizing Carpal Tunnel Cupping Therapy Benefits

While cupping helps some carpal tunnel sufferers right away, most don’t see changes after one session. Following targeted recommendations between appointments enhances outcomes.

At Home Nerve Glides

Gentle nerve and tendon gliding exercises extend the benefits from cupping therapy by mobilizing tissue:

Clasp hands, straighten fingers then bend knuckles down
Raise arms overhead then lower elbows behind head
Rotate wrists slowly bringing palms together then apart

Aim for 5 repetitions, 2 times per day.

Wrist Braces

Wearing a brace especially at night keeps the wrist in a neutral position preventing nerves/tendons from getting compressed. This allows space for inflammation and swelling to subside faster.

Adapted Usage

Modify activities requiring repetitive gripping or wrist flexion by taking frequent breaks and using alternate hands when possible. This minimizes nerve irritation and strain. Listening to your body and avoiding motions triggering heightened symptoms gives cupping treatments the best shot at promoting healing.

Integrating Other Carpal Tunnel Therapies with Cupping

While some utilize cupping as their sole treatment approach, layering complementary modalities often boosts outcomes.

Acupuncture

Targeted acupuncture around the wrist, hand, arm and even distant body sites serves to relax musculature and stimulate nerve recovery. Combined cupping and acupuncture leverage different therapeutic strengths.

Massage

Massage techniques like myofascial release and trigger point therapy further break down tissue adhesions, enhance vascular flow and help retrain nerve firing. Using massage alongside cupping magnifies effects.

Stretching and Strengthening

Specific stretches that mobilize median nerve pathway tissues without over-straining hands coupled with gentle strengthening counteracts muscle imbalances. This optimizes recovery. Checking with providers about safely combining multiple modalities provides a comprehensive approach to resolve carpal tunnel syndrome using cupping as a foundation.

When to Seek Alternate Treatment

If carpal tunnel symptoms fail to improve after completing an adequate cupping treatment plan, discussing options like corticosteroid injections or surgical release with your doctor becomes reasonable.

Though a bit messy and initially strange seeming, many carpal tunnel sufferers find cupping worth trying given the low risks and desire to avoid medications or surgery if possible. Being consistent with follow-up appointments and at home care while managing expectations optimizes potential symptom relief.

FAQs

How long does a carpal tunnel cupping session last?

Most cupping appointments range from 30-60 minutes including intake, cup placement, sitting time and cleanup. Initial visits tend to take longer.

How soon after cupping treatment is pain relief felt?

Some notice immediate sensation changes but most take a few hours up to 2-3 days to experience symptom relief as inflammation dissipates post-treatment.

Are there side effects or contraindications for cupping?

Cupping can cause temporary skin irritation. Those with bleeding disorders, medical implants, or taking blood thinners should avoid. Discuss medical history with provider.

How many carpal tunnel cupping sessions are needed?

For chronic carpal tunnel syndrome, most follow a 6-12 session protocol spaced every 2-3 weeks alongside home care like stretches and splinting for optimal outcomes.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.