What to do in case of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a problem affecting the hand and occurs due to a combination of health conditions and activities that put pressure on the median nerve of the wrist. Due to excessive pressure on the median vein, the amount of space in the carpal tunnel decreases and the amount of tissue in the tunnel and the sensitivity of the median nerve increases. This can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome.

The swelling which is common during pregnancy can crowd the structures in the carpal tunnel and lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, especially when combined with forceful or constant movements of the hand and finger.

Swelling which commonly occurs during pregnancy, puts pressure on the median nerve in the wrist and causes symptoms of aching and tingling. Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome, even during pregnancy are most often associated with repetitive motion and ergonomic strain. Due to reduced mobility and a lot of resting, the circulation to the hands and other extremities is also quite slow. And if the female has repetitive hand motions or works at a desk job, she is more likely to experience carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy?

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy include; numbness, tingling, pain, dull ache, swelling, hot fingers,  decreased sensation in the fingers and difficulty holding objects. Symptoms of this condition are usually worse at night or early in the morning and can be felt in the fingers, hand, wrist and in worst cases, in the forearm and shoulder.

What to do in case of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is very common during pregnancy. Conservative management for up to 3 months is recommended for carpal tunnel syndrome related to pregnancy.  Females who still experience the same pain and symptoms after delivery should consult an orthopedic surgeon.

The more you take care and manage the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, the better you are likely to feel after delivery. Here are some remedies you can try to reduce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy-

●      Wrist splints

Wear wrist splints to relieve pain and other symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy. The splint will keep your wrist from bending forwards and thus prevent symptoms from getting worse. Try wearing splints most of the time, including overnight, for the best results.

• Exercise 

Exercises and stretching the wrists can further assist with the symptoms of CTS. Raise your hand above your heart level and then open and close the hands to make a gentle fist. Repeat the same for 5 -10 times, several times a day. This exercise can help reduce the stiffness in the finger joints and help reduce swelling caused due to carpal tunnel syndrome.

●      Modify your lifestyle and activities

Changing your daily routine and the way in which you carry out everyday tasks to reduce bending of the wrist and the pressure exerted in the carpal tunnel can readily improve and manage the symptoms. Try to keep your wrist relaxed and neutral as much as possible. 

Avoid sleeping on the affected side and raise the affected arm on a pillow, if possible. Keep your wrist from bending forward while doing your everyday tasks. Wear a wrist splint to prevent forward bending of your wrist. Avoid lifting heavy weights or performing activities which can make the symptoms worse.

How can you manage swelling due to carpal tunnel syndrome in pregnancy?

Using cold or ice packs on the inner part of your wrist or placing the hands in a cold water bath for about 30 seconds to 1 minute can also help in reducing the swelling.  It is advised to stop following these if your symptoms worsen. Try to rest with your hands above the heart level for a few minutes, several times a day.  Following such habits regularly can help reduce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy.

When will pregnancy related carpal tunnel syndrome end?

Just like your feet return back to their normal size, carpal tunnel syndrome is also likely to resolve on its own after delivery. It may take a few months for the symptoms to resolve or completely go away. However, symptoms are likely to stay longer if you are breastfeeding.

Carpal tunnel usually resolves on its own after delivery as the fluid retention decreases. But if this does not happen or symptoms of CTS worsen after delivery, you should get in contact with an expert orthopedic surgeon who can suggest to you what your next steps should be.

If the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome do not go away after trying non-surgical methods or lifestyle changes, the orthopedic doctors may suggest undergoing carpal tunnel release surgery. Consult the best orthopedic surgeons at Pristyn Care who specialize in carpal tunnel surgery.

Ulani Uriah

Umar Nisar was born and raised in the busy city of Abbottabad. As a journalist, Umar Nisar has contributed to many online publications including PAK Today and the Huffing Post. In regards to academics, Umar Nisar earned a degree in business from the Abbottabad UST, Havelian. Umar Nisar follows the money and covers all aspects of emerging tech here at The Hear Up.

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