Patient Information Resources


Orthopedic Services
Glendale Adventist Medical Center
1509 Wilson Terrace
Glendale, CA 91206
Ph: (818) 409-8000






Ankle
Elbow
Foot
Fractures
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Pain Management
Shoulder
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

I have several friends who get acupuncture treatment every week for various aches and pains. I have carpal tunnel syndrome that seems to come and go depending on what I'm doing at work. Can acupuncture help with this? And what kind of side effects can occur?

Acupuncture has been shown to be safe and effective for short-term (two to four weeks) treatment of mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome. Long-term studies are needed to confirm the benefit of acupuncture for this same problem. Symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and night pain improve within the first two weeks of treatment. In one study, the biggest difference was in night pain awakening the patient. Patients having acupuncture seemed to have the most improvement in this area with fewer night-time awakenings of pain. Motor function improves with acupuncture as well. This means that the previously compromised nerve is better able to send messages from the affected median nerve to the muscles. There can be a few side effects of acupuncture. Needles used in acupuncture can cause skin tenderness, bleeding, and numbness and leave bruising of the skin. Treatment take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. Most patients report this as a very pleasant, relaxing, and calming time.

References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.