Dr. Sandali N. L. Narathota1, Dr. Saman S. Hettige2
1.Ayurveda Doctor, Demonstrator – Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo, Former Lecturer for Research Methodology – OIUCM
2.Ayurveda Psychiatrist, Traditional Ayurveda Psychiatry – Neelammahara Tradition, Vice president, Senior Lecturer, Senate Member, Director Traditional Medicine – Medicina Alternativa – OIUCM
Introduction
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy, resulting from compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, and reduced hand function, which significantly affect daily activities. Conventional treatments such as NSAIDs, wrist splints, and corticosteroid injections offer temporary relief with potential side effects. As a safer, minimally invasive approach, acupuncture has gained attention as a non-pharmacological therapy capable of modulating neuropathic pain and improving nerve conduction. This study evaluates the effectiveness of acupuncture in individuals diagnosed with mild to moderate CTS.
Methodology
A review of clinical studies published between 2020–2025 was conducted through databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Studies utilizing manual acupuncture or electroacupuncture were included if they assessed pain, sensory symptoms, or functional outcomes. Commonly used acupoints included P7, P6, LI4, LI10, H7, SI3, and local Ashi points. Outcome measures reviewed included Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), and nerve conduction studies.
Results and Discussion
The majority of included studies reported significant reductions in pain intensity and nocturnal numbness following acupuncture treatment. Improvements were observed in median nerve conduction velocity and functional scores such as BCTQ. Electroacupuncture showed faster symptomatic relief compared to manual needling in several studies. The therapeutic effects are attributed to increased local microcirculation, reduction of inflammation, modulation of neurotransmitters, and enhanced neural repair. Acupuncture demonstrated superior or comparable outcomes to splinting and NSAIDs, especially in early-stage CTS.
Conclusion
Acupuncture is an effective, safe, and drug-free therapeutic option for managing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Evidence supports its role in improving pain, nerve function, and hand mobility, making it a valuable complementary intervention in clinical practice. Keywords – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Acupuncture, Non-Pharmacological Therapy, Median Nerve Function, Electroacupuncture