Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) can be a common issue experienced in pregnancy. It is a result of you having more fluid in the body and this results in a build-up of pressure on the nerves that supply the hands and wrist.

Some of the symptoms you may experience are:

• Discomfort, throbbing or pain in the palm of your hand, thumb, fingers and wrist
• Some swelling in the hand, thumb and fingers.
• Your hand may feel weak when you grip (advise caution carrying things like hot drinks) also take care when driving
• Numbness in the hand, thumb and fingers, this can also be felt in the forearm. (again show caution when handling hot objects to avoid burning)
• Tingling / pins and needles in the hand, thumb or fingers
• Cramping in the muscles
• Symptoms often feel worse at night and in the morning
• Hands can look red and feel hot

Symptoms can vary and effect one or both hands. CTS cannot harm your baby and usually resolves after you have given birth.

There are several things you can do to try and manage your symptoms:

• Try to avoid repetitive movements and carrying heavy shopping bags for any length of time
• Elevate your hands when able to encourage drainage of the excess fluid, especially before bedtime. You can prop your arm up against cushions to elevate whilst resting to aid circulation
• Try alternatively switching your effected hand from warm to cold water for contrast (check temperature if there is any numbness)
• Regularly exercising your hand/wrist can help:

– Make a fist and stretch out your fingers

– Move your hand up and down at the wrist

– Touch your thumb to each finger

– With elbows bent , turn your palms of your hands up and down

– Bend and straighten your elbow

(Aim to do these x10 every hour)

You may need to see your midwife, GP or physio to be provided with splints to wear at night.

You can chat with other pregnant women and ask for or share tips for dealing carpal tunnel syndrome or any other symptoms of pregnancy in our online community.