"Vitamin Therapy For My
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?"
As with most problems of the body, there are a multitude of causes and
cures and rarely is there a magic bullet for anything, including carpal
tunnel syndrome. At our clinic, we look at how the wrist and neck are
aligned to see if there is an irritation or compression on the nerves
that pass through the carpal tunnel. We 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 our 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 carpal
tunnel syndrome), there are also other dietary approaches that have
been tried to cure or alleviate 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.
Recent research (Ryan-Harshman M, Aldoori W. Carpal tunnel syndrome and
vitamin B6. Canadian Family Physician 2007;53(7):1161-2.), has shown
that although the research is weak on the subject, there appears to be
modest evidence that supplementing their 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 the 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. Older adults and those who consume excessive alcohol can be at
risk for developing a vitamin B6 deficiency.