Carpal Tunnel During Pregnancy

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Carpal Tunnel?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is when the median nerve gets compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Since this nerve controls feeling in the fingers, symptoms of this condition include feelings of tingling, pain, burning, and/or numbness in the wrists, hands, and/or fingers. 

What Does Carpal Tunnel Feel Like?

Carpal tunnel can feel like throbbing, tingling, pain, burning, and/or numbness. It can occur in one or both hands. 

Is Carpal Tunnel a Symptom of Pregnancy?

Carpal tunnel during pregnancy usually occurs in the third trimester. This is a time when swelling is common, which can lead to a compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. 

Can Pregnancy Cause Carpal Tunnel?

Yes, pregnancy symptoms can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. 

What Causes Carpal Tunnel During Pregnancy?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the compression of the median nerve that passes through the carpal tunnel (a narrow passageway made up of tiny bones and ligaments). Swelling that is common during pregnancy can be the cause of this compression. 

How Common Is Carpal Tunnel in Pregnancy?

Carpal tunnel is found to affect as many as two-thirds of pregnancies. 

Is Carpal Tunnel Dangerous During Pregnancy?

Carpal tunnel is not dangerous, but it can be painful. However, swelling of the hands is a symptom of preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication. Other symptoms of preeclampsia include face swelling, severe headaches, blurred or double vision, and sudden weight gain. If you experience these symptoms, contact your doctor. 

Does Carpal Tunnel Go Away After Pregnancy?

Carpal tunnel is found to go away after giving birth. However, it may take weeks or months for the condition to completely go away. 

How Long Does Carpal Tunnel Last After Pregnancy?

It varies from person to person. Some do not experience carpal tunnel syndrome just after a few weeks, while others may have it as long as 12 months after birth. 

What Helps Pregnancy Carpal Tunnel?

There are several ways to find relief from carpal tunnel while pregnant. If you have a job or activity that requires repetitive movements, take breaks and stretch your wrist and hands. Symptoms can get worse at night, so try to avoid sleeping on your hands and use a pillow to prop your arms up. Wearing a wrist splint at night can also help. Acupuncture treatments are also effective in reducing pain and inflammation. 

How To Sleep With Carpal Tunnel While Pregnant

Avoid sleeping on your hands when you are pregnant. It’s also a good idea to keep your hands and arms free, even propped up on a pillow during the night. 

Can Acupuncture Help Pregnancy Carpal Tunnel?

Yes, acupuncture is an effective therapy for treating pregnancy-induced carpal tunnel. Treatments work to balance hormones and yin and yang, which reduces inflammation and pain. 

How Does Acupuncture Help Pregnancy Induced Carpal Tunnel?

Acupuncture improves circulation and the flow of yin and yang energies which reduces swelling and inflammation that cause carpal tunnel. This therapy reduces pain and helps improve flexibility. 

What Herbal Medicine Helps Carpal Tunnel During Pregnancy?

We do not recommend herbal medicine for treating carpal tunnel syndrome.