I am 46 and have carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands. I have been given wrist splints to wear at night, with the prospect of anti-inflammatories/cortisone injections/surgery if these don't work. I am not keen on any of these. The splints relieve night-time symptoms but by day things are just the same. I drive 500 miles a week and use a laptop for about three 45-minute periods a day. Is there any (inexpensive) therapy I could try?

The pain is caused by inflammation and pinching of the meridian nerve, which runs from the wrist to the thumb, first and second fingers. It is usually caused by overuse and is common in keyboard users. Vitamins B2 and B6 may help - take 50mg of each as part of a B complex. Try using a padded steering-wheel cover and change your position at the keyboard. Yoga or Alexander technique will teach you to use your body without strain. Massage your hands, arms and shoulders twice a day with the following analgesic and anti-inflammatory mix: add 15 drops lavender, 10 drops eucalyptus and 5 drops German camomile essential oils to 30ml base oil.

I am 52 and have been suffering from a vulval itch for four years. I have tried various prescribed remedies but nothing has worked. My next option is to have an injection to deaden the nerves - which I am not keen to do. I have been told it is not thrush and unlikely to be lichen sclerosis. Any suggestions?

Pruritus vulvae is a skin problem that causes intense itching and irritation of the vulval area and can be due to irritants such as soap, bath salts, or traces of detergent in underwear. It can be made worse by excessive exercise, sweating or sitting for long periods. Lack of B vitamins, especially B12, can be the cause, so take supplements. It may also be due to hormone imbalances, which are likely at your age. As oestrogen levels decline, the cells of the vulva and vaginal wall dry out and can become irritated. Herbs such as Mexican yam, dong quai and agnus castus restore lubrication. A soothing cream called V Gel (from Higher Nature, 0870 066 0808) will give immediate relief, while healing and repairing the cells in the long-term. Wash the vulva daily with plain water, try not to scratch and visit a homeopath (the Society of Homeopaths, 01604 621400 or homeopathy-soh.org).

I have a couple of keloid scars on my shoulder that are about 12 years old. The redness has subsided, but they still don't look that attractive. I don't want to have them surgically removed. Is there a natural way to help to fade their appearance?

Thiosinaminum, made from oil of mustard seed, is a homeopathic remedy recommended for dissolving long-standing keloid scar tissue. I advise taking it internally and externally. Take potency 6X three times a day for a week and wait for a month. Repeat for another week if the fading action has halted. If there is no change, call Helios (01892 537254) for advice about antidoting. Strong substances such as peppermint and coffee can affect the action. Meanwhile, apply Scar Healing Cream twice a day continuously; as well as thiosinaminum, it contains vitamin E oil, calendula and symphytum - all excellent ingredients for rebuilding skin. Scar Healing Cream, £4 for 60g, and thiosinaminum, £3.35 for 40 tablets, both from Helios.

· Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Her recommendations are to be followed in conjunction with advice from your own healthcare provider. Send your questions to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: ask.emma@theguardian.com.