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Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Carpal Tunnel???

Since Sunday I've been having a aching/tingling/numbness in the middle finger of my right hand. I think it's Carpal tunnel syndrome. Ugh!
"Tingling Hands (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)
That telltale tingle… Here's why aching hands are common during pregnancy, and what you can do about them.What it is: Numbness, a "pins-and-needles" sensation, or aching in the hands and wrists, especially noticeable at night. What causes carpal tunnel syndrome: Pregnancy swelling puts pressure on a key nerve in the wrists and causes the same aching and tingling symptoms most often associated with ergonomic strain and repetitive motion. (Of course, if you're pregnant and having ergonomic strain or doing repetitive motion, you're twice as likely to experience it.) What you need to know about tingling hands: If you're feeling these symptoms more at night, it's because the fluids that accumulate in the lower part of your body during the day are redistributed elsewhere, including your hands, when you lie down. (Kind of reverse gravity.) And of course, if you've been at a computer all day long, nighttime leaves your carpal nerve with a double whammy. Luckily, though, this symptom should disappear after delivery as your swelling diminishes. What to do about tingling hands:
If you work at a computer, or do any other activity that requires repetitive motion, like playing the piano or filing, take frequent hand-stretching breaks. If typing, type gently, making sure your wrists are straight and your elbows are higher than your hands.
Try not to sleep on your hands.
Use a pillow to prop up your arms at night.
Shake your hands and wrists out frequently. At night, you can hang your hand over the side of the bed and shake it.
It may help to limit or avoid caffeine and stay away from tobacco (which you should definitely be doing, anyway).
If you're in a lot of pain, try a wrist brace. Ask your practitioner which kind to buy.
Acupuncture might help — ask your practitioner for a recommendation."

From http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/symptoms-and-solutions/carpal-tunnel.aspx

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