Understanding the link between pregnancy and carpal tunnel

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey that often brings about a variety of physical changes. One such change that many expecting mothers might not anticipate is carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition arises when the median nerve, which travels from the forearm into the palm, becomes compressed, leading to discomfort in the hands and wrists.

What causes pregnancy carpal tunnel?

Pregnancy can lead to fluid retention, swelling and other physical changes that may increase pressure in the carpal tunnel, especially for women with a family history or those who engage in repetitive wrist movements.

As your pregnancy progresses, you might notice symptoms like tingling, numbness and pain, which can be quite unsettling. You might also experience weakness in your hands, making it difficult to grip objects.

"By staying hydrated, maintaining good posture and avoiding repetitive hand movements, you can reduce the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy," says Eva M. Martin, MD, a maternity specialist at Main Line Health.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin online

Safe ways to alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms

Carpal tunnel syndrome can make everyday tasks feel more challenging, such as typing, cooking or holding a book, but there are safe and effective ways to find relief, including:

• Wear wrist splints, especially at night
• Apply cold packs to reduce swelling
• Use warm compresses for soothing pain
• Adjust the height of your workstation
• Use specially designed kitchen tools
• Do gentle exercises like wrist flexes and hand massages

"Don't hesitate to ask for assistance with tasks that make your symptoms worse. And be sure to take frequent breaks to rest your hands," says Dr. Martin. "Additionally, acupuncture and chiropractic care have helped some pregnant women, but be sure to consult your doctor before starting any new treatment."

If you have sudden and severe symptoms like intense pain or extreme weakness in your hands during pregnancy, it's important to see a doctor right away. They can run tests to figure out what's going on and provide treatments that are right for you. Getting help early can prevent more problems and make you feel better overall.

Does having carpal tunnel while pregnant mean I'll need surgery later?

During pregnancy, some women may experience carpal tunnel symptoms, which may worry them about needing surgery later on. Fortunately, for most women, these symptoms usually improve or go away after giving birth. But for some, the discomfort may continue, leading to the need for further assessment and possible treatments.

"Having carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy doesn't always mean surgery is necessary," says Philip Petrucelli, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at Main Line Health. "Healthcare providers will usually try non-surgical treatments like corticosteroid injections, wrist splints and physical therapy before considering surgery based on the severity and impact of symptoms."

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Petrucelli online

If surgery does become a consideration, it's generally a straightforward procedure with a high success rate. Carpal tunnel release surgery involves relieving pressure on the median nerve and is often performed on an outpatient basis. Recovery times can vary, but many individuals experience significant relief and improved hand function post-surgery.

By staying informed and proactive, you can manage your health effectively and continue enjoying this precious time in your life.

Next steps:

Make an appointment with Eva M. Martin, MD
Make an appointment with Philip Petrucelli, MD
Learn more about pregnancy care at Main Line Health
6 changes during pregnancy that may surprise you