Acupuncture is a method of “freeing up” or opening the channels of energy in a body. I remember reading years ago that an American engineer was able to trace these energy channels. He said they do, in fact, occur. He was able to document them electronically or electrically.
By opening energetic channels or passageways in a body, the body regains full function. This is accomplished with tiny thin needles. Traditionally, in China these needles were twirled or moved by hand to stimulate (and thereby open) a point where energy was stuck. More commonly today, stimulation is accomplished by
using electricity attached to each needle.
Acu-pressure uses the same channels as acupuncture and also seeks to open blocked energetic channels. Acu-pressure is different because it uses manual (by hand, elbow or forearm) pressure rather than needles and does not require medical training or special licensing (each state and country may have different requirements.) Acu-pressure does not break the skin.
I am not an acupuncturist but, since this question comes up. Acupuncture is just one more thing that may possibly be helpful with carpal tunnel pain relief.