Carpal tunnel syndrome and pregnancy

Carpal tunnel syndrome and pregnancy

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is often seen in pregnancy. CTSs come from 4% of the general population.

Experts are not exactly sure what makes CTS so common during pregnancy, but they think hormonal-related inflammation may be the cause. Since fluid retention in pregnancy can cause damage to your ankle and fingers, it can also cause inflammation leading to CTS.

 Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome in pregnancy:

Common symptoms of CTS in pregnancy include:

• stiffness and discomfort (almost like the feeling of nails and needles) on the fingers, hips, and hands, which can drag most at night

• a feeling of numbness in the hands, wrists and fingers

• Swollen fingers

• reduce the difficulty of grabbing objects and problems in developing fine motor skills, such as tucking in a shirt or necklace

One or both hands may be affected. A 2012 study found that approximately 50 percent of the Source of Confirmed Pregnant participants with CTS had both hands.

Symptoms may increase as pregnancy progresses. One study found 40 percent of participants reported the onset of CTS symptoms after 30 weeks of pregnancy. This is where the biggest benefit and keeper of the flu happens.

 Carpal tunnel syndrome:

CTS occurs when the central nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel to the wrist. The Median nerve runs from the neck, down to the arm, to the wrist. This sensor controls the sensation in the legs.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage made by small bones and carpals. When the tunnel is reduced by swelling, the nerves are compressed. This leads to pain in the hand and the walls or burning in the legs.

 Pregnant women at high risk:

Some pregnant women are more prone to developing CTS than others. Here are some of the dangers of CTS:

You are overweight or obese before pregnancy

It is not yet clear if weight is causing CTS, but pregnant women who are overweight or obese get diagnosed with a more frequent source Trusted Source than pregnant women who are not overweight or obese.

Having pregnancy-related diabetes or high blood pressure

Diabetic retinopathy and hypertension lead to fluid retention and subsequent inflammation. This, in turn, increases the risk of CTS.

Sugar levels are high and can cause inflammation, including the carpal tunnel. This can also increase the risk of CTS.

Previous pregnancy:

Relaxin can be seen in high doses in subsequent pregnancies. This hormone helps the pelvis and cervix increase during pregnancy in preparation for delivery. It can also cause inflammation in the carpal tunnel, spraying the Median nerve.

 CTS diagnosed during pregnancy:

CTS is usually available based on your description of the symptoms at your doctor. Your doctor may also do a physical exam.

During a physical exam, your doctor may use electrodiagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis, if necessary. Electrodiagnostic tests use thin needles or electrodes (wires mounted on the skin) to record and analyze the signals your sensors send and receive. Median nerve damage can reduce or prevent these electrical signals.

Your doctor may also use the Tinel symbol to identify nerve damage. This test can be done as part of a physical exam, too. During the test, your doctor will slowly replace the affected area. If you feel a sense of anxiety, this can indicate nerve damage.

Tinel and electrodiagnostic tests are safe to use during pregnancy.

 Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome in pregnancy:

Most physicians recommend treating CTS with dedication during pregnancy. This is because most people will experience relief in the weeks and months after giving birth. In one study, one in six participants who had CTS during pregnancy still had symptoms at 12 months after birth.

You are more likely to continue receiving CTS after giving birth if your CTS symptoms begin early in your pregnancy or if your symptoms are severe.

The following treatments can be used safely during pregnancy:

• Use a splint. Look for a brace that keeps your frame neutral (not bent). Where the symptoms are usually worse, wearing a spear at night can be especially beneficial. If applicable, you can wear it during the day.

• Reduce activities that cause your wounds. This includes typing on the keyboard.

Use cold medicine. Apply a wrap of ice to a towel on your wrist for about 10 minutes, several times a day, to help reduce swelling. You can also try something called a "separate bath": soak your head in cold water for about one minute, then in warm water for another minute. Continue alternating for five to six minutes. Repeat as many times as possible.

• Relax. Whenever you feel pain or fatigue in your wrist, relax a little, or switch to another activity.

• Raise your arms whenever possible. You can use pillows to do so.

• Practice yoga. Results from one studyThe study sources found that practicing yoga can reduce pain and increase the seizure capacity in people with CTS. More research is needed, however, especially to understand the benefits of pregnancy-related CTS.

• Get physical therapy. Myofascial removal treatment can reduce CTS-related pain and increase hand function. This is a type of massage to reduce stiffness and shortness in ligaments and muscles.

• Take pain relievers. Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) at any time during pregnancy is considered safe, as long as you do not exceed 3,000 mg daily. Talk to your doctor if there are any concerns. Protect ibuprofen (Advil) during pregnancy unless it is specifically approved by your doctor. Ibuprofen is linked to low amniotic fluid and many other conditions.

Carpal tunnel syndrome and breastfeeding:

Breastfeeding can be painful with CTS because you will need to use your wrist to hold your baby's head and chest in the proper position to be a nurse. Try experimenting with different positions. Use pillows and blankets to lift, support, or tie the ship when needed.

You may want hands-free nursing, where your baby feeds when his or her temptation is worn around your body.

If you are having trouble breastfeeding or finding the right position for you and your baby, consider talking to a lactation consultant. They can help you learn comfortable positions and can help you identify any problems you or your child have in kindergarten.

 Opinion:

CTS is normal during pregnancy. Simple steps such as printing and taking acetaminophen are standard treatments and often bring relief.

Most people will see their symptoms resolved within 12 months after giving birth. However, it can take years in some cases. Talk to your doctor about ways to safely treat your symptoms.