Pregnancy guide

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Why am I having tingling and numbness in my hands during pregnancy?

These sensations are caused by carpal tunnel syndrome.
The carpal tunnel syndrome is more prevalent in pregnant women. Usually affects both hands and can appear at any time.
Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, pain, a dull ache in the fingers, hand or wrist. These symptoms are often worse at night. The discomfort may extend to the forearm and upper arm. In severe cases, your hand may feel clumsy or weak.

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome in pregnant women?

The carpal tunnel is a bony canal formed by the wrist bones on three sides and a ligament that runs across the wrist on the other.
The fluid retention and swelling, so common during pregnancy, can increase the pressure in this relatively narrow space, compressing the median nerve that runs through it. Pressure on this nerve causes the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

What can I do to relieve the pain?
  • Avoid the activities which causes or aggravate the problem.
  • Sometimes you can make changes to protect your hands (adjust the height of your chair if you’re working at a computer, use an ergonomic keyboard).
  • Try to stabilize your wrist in a neutral position with a splint or brace.
  • If you wake up with pain, try shaking your hands until the pain or numbness goes away.
  • Practice yoga. It may increase hand strength and relieve your symptoms.

For further information

Guide summary