Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel is located at the base of the thumb where it meets the wrist and the pinky side of the palm and is formed from bones in the wrist and a ligament called the transverse carpal ligament. There are nine tendons and a nerve that pass through the carpal tunnel, and during pregnancy when water retention continually increases, this can lead to compression or irritation of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. Symptoms include numbness in the thumb, the first two fingers, part of the ring finger, and pain and weakness in the hand. In the post-partum period there is still water retention for a period and in conjunction with a sharp increase in strain in the hand and wrist from caring for and holding your newborn, the tendons of the hand and wrist can become taut and further inflamed.  

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that is common throughout the perinatal period and to make a clear diagnosis a thorough examination of the neck, thoracic spine, and the entire upper limb must be performed; myofascial trigger points, cervical disc herniations, and entrapments of the median nerve above the wrist are all potential mimickers of carpal tunnel syndrome. Chiropractic care which may include myofascial release of the finger and wrist flexor muscles, the transverse carpal ligament, mobilization of the bones of the wrist and arm, and anti-inflammatory supports are effective in providing relief for carpal tunnel syndrome.