Wrist pain is a common, often temporary, complaint for many expectant mothers. While uncomfortable, understanding its causes and management can provide relief. This discomfort often arises from unique physiological changes during pregnancy.
Why Wrist Pain is Common During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant hormonal shifts and experiences increased fluid retention. Hormones like relaxin, which soften ligaments for childbirth, can also affect wrist ligaments, leading to joint laxity and instability. Increased blood volume and fluid retention (edema) also cause swelling in hands and wrists.
One common condition exacerbated by these changes is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). The carpal tunnel is a narrow wrist passageway for tendons and the median nerve. During pregnancy, fluid buildup and softened ligaments can compress the median nerve within this tunnel. This compression causes pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger, often worsening at night. Approximately 31% to 62% of pregnant women may experience CTS, typically in the second and third trimesters.
Another condition causing wrist pain during pregnancy is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, sometimes called “Mommy Thumb” or “Mommy Wrist.” It involves inflammation of tendon sheaths on the thumb side of the wrist. Hormonal changes and fluid retention can predispose individuals, causing pain near the base of the thumb and wrist, especially with thumb movement or grasping. While it can occur during pregnancy, it is also frequently seen postpartum due to repetitive motions associated with infant care.
Managing Wrist Discomfort
Resting the affected wrist and modifying daily activities alleviates pain. Avoiding repetitive hand movements and heavy lifting prevents further irritation. Adjusting tasks, such as using alternative grips or positions, also helps.
Wearing a wrist splint, especially at night, is a common and effective strategy. Splints keep the wrist in a neutral, straight position, reducing pressure on the median nerve and minimizing inflammation. They are comfortable for sleep and can be used during the day if beneficial.
Applying compresses helps manage discomfort. Cold packs reduce inflammation and swelling when applied for 20-30 minutes every 2-3 hours, wrapped in a towel. Alternating warm and cold compresses, or using warm compresses for stiffness, also provides relief.
Adjusting ergonomics and maintaining proper posture minimizes wrist strain. This includes optimal workstation height and avoiding excessive wrist bending. Elevating hands and wrists when resting reduces fluid accumulation and swelling.
Gentle exercises and stretches maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness. Examples include wrist extension and flexion stretches, gently pulling the hand backward or forward to stretch forearm muscles. Median nerve glides, involving specific movements to mobilize the nerve, may also be beneficial.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
If wrist pain, numbness, or tingling persists or worsens despite self-care measures, consult a healthcare professional. Symptoms not improving with home management may indicate a need for further evaluation.
Seek medical attention for severe or debilitating pain significantly impacting daily life or sleep. Also, if you experience weakness or loss of function, such as difficulty gripping objects or dropping items, professional assessment is needed. Any sudden onset of symptoms or unusual discomfort not fitting the typical pattern of pregnancy-related wrist pain should also prompt a doctor’s consultation.