Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the Carpal Tunnel, a tunnel formed by the carpal wrist bones and
a band of connective tissue encircling the wrist.
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The 'tunnel' contains nine tendons as well as the median nerve and so is a narrow place. The swelling and fluid retention of pregnancy
can increase the pressure inside the Carpal Tunnel. Other symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include
- morning stiffness or cramping of the hands
- burning sensations in the fingers
- frequently dropping of objects
If you believe that you may have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome then diagnosis is best performed by your health care practitioner. The definitive diagnostic procedure involves a detailed case history coupled with study of the nerve as it passes
through the Carpal Tunnel, a nerve conduction study. This will detect at least 90% of those with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
What can you do to relieve pain?
For pregnant women, the symptom s are most frequent at night or on waking. Shifting sleeping position and propping the arm up with pillows may help. Some women get relief by wearing a wrist brace or splint
which can help take pressure off the nerves. Some naturopaths recommend taking Vitamin B6 in conjunction with Vitamin B as it may reduce water retention although some small clinical trial have not demonstrated any immediate benefits from doing this (please consult your health care practitioner before taking or modifying your intake of supplements).
Fortunately the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome disappear after the birth.
Pregnancy Massage for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The following is adapted from "Mother Massage" by Elaine Stillerman.
Please note: the massage should not be painful - if you have any doubts or concerns then please consult your healthcare practitioner before beginning massage.
This massage may be performed with the mother comfortably seated using a suitable oil or lotion. The objective is to remove pressure on the nerves by lengthening the muscles. At no time should there be direct pressure on the Carpal Tunnel
1. Bend the mother's affected arm at the elbow and hold the hand as though you were shaking her hand. Wrap your other hand gently around her wrist, lightly stroke towards her elbow and repeat a few times using only a light glide for the return stroke.
Turn the palm up and repeat the stroke on the inside of the arm (the forearm flexors).
2. Perform an effleurage stroke a few times using your thumb down the middle of her forearm from the wrist to elbow (the forearm extensors) and repeat on the flexors.
3. Perform frictions around the wrist joint using both thumbs being careful not to apply pressure directly to the Carpal Tunnel.
4. Straighten her arm and apply transverse frictions at the fleshy part of the forearm just below the elbow (going across the muscle). If this area is sensitive then don't massage too deeply.
5. Repeat step 1.
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