How can i prevent carpal tunnel syndrome in pregnancy?

Rest, Ice, Support: Pregnancy hormones cause laxity in our ligaments important for childbirth. They can also make it easier to experience ligament strains. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a result of repetitive use of wrist and finger for daily activities or work and is more common in pregnancy. Wearing a wrist splint will help as is icing the area regularly. It usually resolves after delivery.

May not be possible: Cts is very common in pregnancy because of fluid retention, but it often resolves after delivery. If you are having symptoms of numbness and tingling in the thumb, index and long fingers, the use of neutral splints at night will minimize increases in carpal tunnel pressure. If the symptoms are severe, see your doctor.

Water weight: Swelling can lead to symptoms of carpal tunnel, if you can limit salt this may help. Also a night splint may help and even one during your waking hours may be needed.

Fluid: The most common reason for cts in pregnancuy is fluid retention, while yo can't take diuretics and other drugs you can watch oout for excessive salt intake, wear splints ( once you have cts ..Not too tight! ) and even seek out a haand surgeon and with permission of your obgyn get an injection. Make sure your thyroid and blood sugar are getting checkd as well as electrolytes and ca and mg too!

Splint: Night splints are critical if you get carpal tunnel symptoms.

Massage and splints: Have your significant other massage your fingers/hands/wrists every night to help remove excess fluid (start from the fingertips and work up the hand/arm). Try to keep your salt intake low to avoid extra water retention. Finally, wearing wrists splints at night is very helpful!