Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Overview

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome during Pregnancy

Pain, numbness, tingling, or a "crawling ants" sensation in the fingers (especially the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger) and wrist, often worsening at night. This condition, known as carpal (wrist) tunnel syndrome, occurs due to compression of the median nerve within the narrow carpal tunnel in the wrist.

Why does it happen in pregnant women?

The main cause is fluid retention, typical of pregnancy. Swelling in the tissues creates additional pressure inside the carpal tunnel, leading to nerve compression. This symptom most commonly appears in the third trimester, when swelling is at its peak.

Although it can be very uncomfortable, the condition is usually temporary and resolves on its own within a few weeks or months after delivery, when excess fluid is eliminated from the body.

Recommendations

rest

Hand rest

splint

Wrist splint

exercise

Hand exercises

position

Proper posture

Home care

  • Wear a wrist splint, do hand exercises.

When to see a doctor

  • If you experience severe pain or loss of sensation.

Seek care urgently

  • Сильний біль
  • Втрата чутливості
  • Слабкість рук
  • Атрофія м'язів

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