Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that can lead to numbness, tingling and/or pain in the hands and fingers, and we often see it affect pregnant women.
So, why would a growing belly cause tingly fingers? Amid the many physical changes that women experience during pregnancy, some can contribute to the development of CTS by putting increased pressure on the median nerve as it runs through the front of the wrist. The most common culprit is the rapid hormonal change that can cause fluid retention and inflammation, producing compression and pressure on the median nerve.
Symptoms can vary from mama to mama, but they’re most commonly described as a numb or tingling feeling in the thumb, index and middle fingers. It’s not unusual for symptoms to worsen at nighttime and interfere with a potentially good night’s sleep. (OK, we can hear you pregnant insomniacs laughing from here!).
Here are four ways to keep your fingers fighting free and to help manage CTS during pregnancy:
- Wrist support: wearing a wrist support or splint during activities of a repetitive nature can help to keep the hand/wrist in optimal positioning and aid in alleviating pressure on the median nerve.
- Gentle exercises: regular gentle exercises for the wrists, hands and fingers can assist in enhancing circulation, decreasing inflammation, and sustaining overall upper limb flexibility.
- Modify daily activities: where possible, small modifications to everyday activities, including improving hand positioning, decreasing load, and allowing time for rest, can help reduce median nerve pressure.
- See one of our wonderful Pivotal Physiotherapists to help set you up with points 1, 2 and 3 and, recommend any other management options that may be of specific benefit for you to help manage your CTS during your pregnancy!
Check out this great infographic below for some exercises we might prescribe you to manage your symptoms.
~ Erin Pregarc, Physiotherapist