Pregnancy is an exciting and happy time, but it can also come with a host of physical changes and discomforts. One common symptom experienced by many pregnant women is numbness or tingling in their hands, particularly during the latter stages of pregnancy. This phenomenon is known as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), and it affects up to 62% of pregnant women. Here’s what you need to know about CTS and how to manage it during pregnancy.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve, which runs from your forearm to your hand through a narrow passage in your wrist called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed or pinched. The compression causes a range of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers, particularly the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Pregnancy?
Pregnancy-related carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the buildup of fluid in the body, which can cause swelling and inflammation in the tissues around the median nerve. This swelling and inflammation put pressure on the nerve and cause the symptoms of CTS. This is especially common during the third trimester when fluid retention is at its peak.
Other factors that may contribute to CTS during pregnancy include weight gain and hormonal changes. Weight gain during pregnancy can put additional strain on the wrists and hands, leading to swelling and compression of the median nerve. Hormonal changes, particularly an increase in relaxin, can also contribute to CTS symptoms as they relax the ligaments that support the wrist and hand.
How Can You Manage Carpal Tunnel Syndrome During Pregnancy?
Managing carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy can be challenging, especially as many of the traditional treatments for CTS, such as NSAIDs, are not advised during pregnancy. However, there are several steps you can take to relieve your symptoms and help manage your condition.
1. Rest and Elevation
One of the most effective ways to manage CTS during pregnancy is to rest and elevate your hands and wrists as much as possible. Try to rest your hands or elevate them above your heart when you’re sitting or lying down to help reduce swelling and inflammation.
2. Stretching
Regular stretching exercises can help relieve the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome in pregnancy. Exercises such as wrist flexion, wrist extension, and wrist rotations can help increase circulation, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain and discomfort in the hands and wrists.
3. Splints
Wearing a splint or brace on your wrist and hand can help support the joint and alleviate pressure on the median nerve. These devices are often prescribed by doctors for those with severe CTS symptoms, but they can also be useful for pregnant women experiencing mild to moderate symptoms.
4. Massage
Regular hand and wrist massage can help improve circulation, reduce swelling, and relieve pain and discomfort in the affected areas. You can gently massage your hands and wrists with a pregnancy-safe oil, or you can schedule a professional massage with a qualified therapist.
5. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a natural therapy that can help relieve pain and discomfort, as well as reduce inflammation and swelling in the body. Acupuncture sessions may also help regulate fluids in the body, which can help alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms during pregnancy.
6. Hydration
It’s essential to stay hydrated during pregnancy to help reduce fluid retention and swelling, which can contribute to CTS symptoms. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary drinks can help keep your body hydrated and reduce swelling in your hands and wrists.
In conclusion, carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition experienced by many pregnant women. Although it can be challenging to manage, there are several steps that women can take to alleviate their symptoms and help manage the condition, including rest, elevation, stretching exercises, splints, massage, acupuncture, and hydration. If you’re experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider, who can help you develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.