You may associate carpal tunnel syndrome with people whose jobs require them to perform repetitive hand movements, but did you know that 28 percent of pregnant women suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome when they are expecting? Many women actually develop symptoms of this condition for the first time when they're with child.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome During Pregnancy?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve (the nerve in your wrist that helps you move your thumb and the first three fingers on each hand) is compressed. The median nerve travels through your carpel tunnel – a narrow tunnel formed by the bones, ligaments, and other tissues of your wrist. During pregnancy, swelling and fluid retention can increase the pressure in the carpal tunnel, which compresses the median nerve and causes the symptoms carpal tunnel syndrome.
When you have carpal tunnel syndrome, you may have a dull ache, numbness, or pain in your wrist or individual fingers. Swelling and inflammation are also common symptoms of this condition. Sometimes carpal tunnel syndrome can cause weakness and numbness in the arm and shoulder. In severe cases, your hand may feel weak and clumsy.
During pregnancy, carpal tunnel syndrome can affect both hands, and symptoms tend to be worse in the second and third trimester, when swelling and fluid retention is common. Most pregnant women notice these painful symptoms in the middle part of pregnancy, when edema (or water retention in pregnancy) is more of a problem.
The aches and pain from carpal tunnel syndrome is usually worse at night. You may find your wrists and fingers ache when you're working at the computer, or when you have to bend your wrists.
When you're on the computer, you may consider getting a special keyboard to help with carpal tunnel syndrome. "Ergonomic" keyboards are usually designed with a split keyboard design, slight slope, and cushioned palm support. Many expectant mothers find the extra support and unique design offers a more comfortable typing experience than a traditional keyboard.
Helpful Tip: If you find that carpal tunnel syndrome disrupts your sleep, or makes it harder for you to work, contact your healthcare provider or doctor. He or she may recommend a split or hand brace, which will relieve many of the symptoms you're experiencing. In some cases, you may require physical therapy.
If you prefer a traditional keyboard, you can help prevent the discomfort associated with carpal tunnel syndrome by adjusting the height of your chair so that your wrists are bent downwards when you type. Always take typing breaks when using a computer.
Some people with carpel tunnel syndrome get relief from a wrist guard or hand brace. This helps stabilize your wrist in a neutral position.
Fortunately, symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome usually abate a few short weeks after delivery.
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