Carpal tunnel syndrome in pregnancy is usually temporary and resolves after delivery, as your body returns to balance. Until then, there are simple ways to find relief and make things easier on yourself.
In this article:
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)?
Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve in your wrist gets compressed. This nerve runs through a narrow passageway in your wrist called the carpal tunnel and controls feeling and movement in your thumb, index, middle, and part of your ring finger.When it’s squeezed, you might feel pain, tingling, or weakness in your hand. During pregnancy, CTS is especially common because changes in your body can put extra pressure on the nerve.
What are the Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome During Pregnancy
Some of the pregnancy changes can lead to CTS:- Fluid retention: Your body holds onto extra fluid to support your growing baby. This can cause swelling and wrist pain during pregnancy, which narrows the carpal tunnel and presses on the median nerve.
- Hormonal changes: Hormones like relaxin and progesterone soften your ligaments, including the one forming the roof of the carpal tunnel. This can make the tunnel less spacious and squeeze the nerve.
- Increased swelling in the later trimesters: CTS symptoms often worsen in the second and third trimesters, when fluid buildup peaks. For most people, these symptoms ease within a few weeks after giving birth as fluid levels normalise.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment: Non-Surgical Options
Most cases of CTS during pregnancy can be managed without surgery. These are some safe and effective ways to ease your discomfort:- Wear a wrist splint: It keeps your wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve. Wearing it at night helps a lot since symptoms often get worse while you sleep. Your doctor or physiotherapist can help you find one that fits comfortably.
- Try gentle hand exercises: Simple stretches can improve blood flow and reduce stiffness. For example, slowly bend your wrist up and down or spread your fingers wide and hold for a few seconds. Do these daily for the best results.
- Use cold therapy: Apply a cold pack (wrapped in a cloth) to your wrist for 10 to 15 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling. You can also run cold water over your wrist for quick relief.
- Elevate your hands: When resting, prop your hands up on a pillow to help fluid drain and ease pressure on the nerve.
- Adjust your activities: Avoid repetitive tasks, such as long periods of typing or heavy lifting. If you work at a desk, take breaks every 20 minutes and keep your wrists straight.
- Fluid drainage massage: Raise your arm and gently stroke from your fingertips toward your shoulder to encourage fluid movement. Never stroke in the opposite direction, as it can worsen swelling.
When Might Surgery Be Needed for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
For most people, CTS symptoms go away after childbirth as the swelling goes down. But if symptoms last more than six months or become severe, surgery might be considered.Carpal tunnel release surgery involves cutting the ligament pressing on the median nerve to create more space. It’s usually a quick procedure done under local anaesthetic, and most individuals feel relief soon after.
However, surgery is rarely needed during pregnancy unless symptoms are extreme and don’t respond to other treatments. Always talk to a specialist to understand the options and what’s best for you.
Tips to Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome During Pregnancy
You can’t always prevent CTS during pregnancy, but you can take steps to lower your risk or keep symptoms mild:- Limit repetitive movements: Take breaks from typing, texting, or any task that may strain or cause wrist pain during pregnancy. Switch hands when possible.
- Do stretching exercises: Try wrist flexor and extensor stretches daily to keep your wrists flexible and improve circulation.
- Maintain a healthy weight: A balanced diet with less salt and more potassium-rich foods (like bananas) can help control fluid buildup. Light activity, such as prenatal yoga, also helps.
- Sleep smart: Try not to sleep on your hands or with your wrists bent. Elevate your arms on a pillow at night to reduce swelling.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush excess fluid from the body and reduce wrist swelling.
- Set up an ergonomic workspace: If you use a computer, keep your keyboard at elbow height and use a comfortable mouse to avoid wrist strain.
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FAQs on Causes and Relief Tips for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Pregnancy
- Can breastfeeding affect carpal tunnel symptoms after delivery?
Yes, it can. Holding your baby in certain positions for long periods may strain the wrists and make symptoms persist or feel worse - Can anaemia during pregnancy increase the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome?
While no direct link has been fully proven, some studies suggest iron deficiency anaemia may affect nerves. This could possibly increase the risk or severity of carpal tunnel symptoms in pregnancy.
