CAUSES, RISK FACTORS, SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT
Have you ever experienced carpal tunnel syndrome at the time of your pregnancy or after delivery. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition during pregnancy. Carpal tunnel is formed by wrist bones on the bottom and the tough band of connective tissue on the top called Transverse carpal ligament or flexor retinaculum.
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During pregnancy the median nerve which passes through this carpal tunnel gets compressed and causes a certain kind of discomfort in the hands, because of swelling the fluid which gets collected in the carpal tunnel, putting pressure on the median nerve causes numbness, tingling sensation and pain occurs on the hands. Overall 60% (60 in every 100 percent) of the pregnant women may experience the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms may range from mild to very painful which may affect one or both the hands. Carpal tunnel syndrome is common during the second and third trimester.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS :
RISK FACTORS
Follow up advices for carpal tunnel syndrome
It is always advisable to prevent the symptoms by avoiding the overuse of hands and keep ur hands on pillow to allow for rest.
Ice pack can be given in the pain area(hands and wrist) approximately for 10 minutes. It's followed by a hot pack as a contrast bathe and this can be given for 5 to 6 minutes.
Try to keep your hands in an elevated position ,when you hang down your hands because of insufficient circulation it can cause swelling.
Avoid sleeping on the affected side and place one pillow comfortably to keep the affected hand on it . Don't hang down your hand to prevent the pain and wear the splint for the overnight.
It's mandatory to continue with exercises after a period of rest which helps to prevent the swelling.
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Stretching exercises for carpal tunnel syndrome :
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Wrist flexion and extension:
Must Read: Fit Bits: How Physiotherapy Can Help You and Your Baby Through Pregnancy and Beyond
Wrist Splinting:
Wear neutral wrist splints at night time to lower the carpal tunnel pressure and to prevent the symptoms. By following this all these precautions and exercises carpal tunnel syndrome can be prevented. Wish you all a happy and healthy pregnancy:)
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Carpal tunnel syndrome is quite common in pregnancy. Gentle exercises for the wrist, massages, and wearing a splint at night can help alleviate the symptoms. Avoid repetitive movements that can worsen the symptoms. Avoid taking any medications and consult your physiotherapist instead.
You can apply ice packs to the affected area. It can help reduce the inflammation or swelling, if any. Gentle exercises and stretches can help improve blood circulation and mobility. You can even check with your doctor and wear a splint at night to maintain wrist position. Avoid activities that can worsen your symptoms.
Reducing inflammation and pressure on the nerve can bring quick relief to carpal tunnel syndrome. Massaging the affected area and applying ice packs can reduce inflammation. Stretching out and exercising the wrist can improve strength and reduce discomfort. While over-the-counter medication can help with pain relief, it is not advisable to take any without a prescription.
For most women, carpal tunnel syndrome will resolve on its own once the fluid levels normalise after pregnancy. Some women may need treatment. Treatment options include splinting, gentle exercises, and stretches. For more serious cases, physical therapy or over-the-counter medications can help. In rare cases, when none of the above-mentioned treatments work, surgery may be necessary.
