4 Best Foods to Reduce Carpal Tunnel Symptoms

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that can cause significant pain and reduced mobility in the forearms, wrists, hands, and fingers. Caused by repetitive movements in the hands and wrists, it's little wonder that this condition is becoming more common in a world where keyboards and video game controllers are a part of everyday life. Most often, those suffering from carpal tunnel are prescribed medications and wrist braces to alleviate symptoms. But did you know that eating the right foods can also help to reduce your carpal tunnel symptoms? Here are 4 foods to eat more of if you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome in Atlanta.

Red Bell Peppers

The pain and tingling you feel when suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by inflammation in the wrists and forearms that constrict certain nerves. So, one of the main goals in carpal tunnel treatment is to reduce inflammation. Antioxidant-rich foods, like red bell peppers, can help to control inflammation. Not a fan of peppers? Just look for other brightly colored fruits and vegetables, as these tend to be rich in antioxidants; eat a rainbow of produce every day, and you can help reduce your carpal tunnel symptoms.

Spinach

Vitamin B6 is frequently prescribed as a supplement for those with carpal tunnel, but it can also be found in the right foods. Spinach contains some of the highest concentrations of Vitamin B6, but if you don't care for spinach, you can also find this vitamin in chicken, bananas, cauliflower, cantaloupe, oranges, and certain cereals.

Salmon

Salmon, tuna, sardines, and other fatty fish are a rich source of two different kinds of omega-3 fats--DHA and EPA. These fats can help to reduce inflammation and ease the pain of carpal tunnel syndrome. If you don't like fish and still want these benefits, you can take a fish oil supplement. However, be sure to consult your doctor before starting any supplement in an effort to treat your condition.

Walnuts

Walnuts are an excellent source of a third kind of omega-3 fatty acid--ALA. Like DHA and EPA, ALA can help to reduce inflammation in your body. Toss them on a salad or into some yogurt, or run them through a food processor and use them to "bread" your fish before baking it. Other foods high in ALA include flaxseed and chia seeds.

While a change in diet may not work for everyone, for those with mild to moderate symptoms, these foods can help to reduce the pain and inflammation caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. To learn more, talk to your doctor about your carpal tunnel syndrome in Atlanta.