Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine 5-phosphate)
For the health condition: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Vitamin B6 (in its active form, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate) has been used traditionally to support or treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), especially since the 1970s. The rationale for its use stemmed from early observational reports and small studies suggesting that B6 deficiency might contribute to neuropathic symptoms similar to those seen in CTS. Some early studies and case reports from the 1970s and 1980s indicated that supplementation could alleviate CTS symptoms in some individuals, possibly due to B6's role in nerve function and neurotransmitter synthesis. However, these studies were often uncontrolled, small in size, or methodologically weak.
Subsequent research—including randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews—has mostly failed to demonstrate a clear, consistent benefit of B6 supplementation for CTS, especially in individuals without clear B6 deficiency. Major guidelines do not recommend B6 for CTS treatment, and excess B6 supplementation itself can cause neuropathy. Despite the lack of robust evidence, the traditional use persists in some alternative and complementary medicine circles, likely due to its historical roots and anecdotal reports. In summary, the use of vitamin B6 for CTS is supported more by tradition than by strong scientific evidence, and its effectiveness remains unproven.
More about Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine 5-phosphate)
More about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Other health conditions supported by Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine 5-phosphate)
AnemiaCarpal Tunnel Syndrome
Depression
Diabetes
Migraine
Nerve Damage
Neuralgia and Neuritis
Peripheral Neuropathy
PMS (general)
PMS Type A
PMS Type C
PMS Type D
PMS Type H
PMS Type P
PMS Type S