Motherhood Unfiltered: Coping with Pregnancy and Postpartum Discomfort
Pregnancy is a transformative and joyous time for most women. However, it brings about many physical changes. The biomechanical, hormonal, and vascular changes during pregnancy make women more likely to develop musculoskeletal issues. The growing uterus changes the body's center of gravity and stresses the joints. Changes in hormones lead to joint laxity, causing changes in stability. Fluid retention compresses soft tissue.
Three common upper body conditions pregnant and postpartum women may experience are:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
Neck Pain
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
CTS is a condition characterized by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. During pregnancy, hormonal changes and fluid retention can lead to swelling and increased pressure on this nerve. Numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers can be the result.
To alleviate discomfort, you can wear wrist splints, do hand exercises, and modify daily activities that cause pain. In severe cases, medical intervention may be necessary.
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain and swelling. Repetitive motions in caring for a newborn, such as lifting and holding the baby, can aggravate this condition. Women may experience discomfort and difficulty with gripping, pinching, or twisting activities.
Treatment options include rest, immobilization with a splint, hand exercises, application of kinesio tape, cold packs, and, in some cases, corticosteroid injections.
Neck Pain
Neck pain is a common complaint during pregnancy and postpartum—this results from posture changes, increased breast size, and hormonal influences that affect ligaments and muscles. As the baby grows, the center of gravity shifts, leading to an altered posture and additional strain on the neck and upper back.
To alleviate neck pain, women should practice good posture, use a supportive pillow while sleeping, do gentle neck stretches and exercises, and consider a prenatal massage or complementary therapies under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
For neck pain during pregnancy, I recommend using My Breast Friend to bring the baby closer to the breast/bottle. While feeding, sit all the way back in the chair, avoid looking down for the entire feeding time, and sit upright or lean back slightly.
Women's pregnancies are unique. What helps one woman may not help another. If you are pregnant or postpartum and experiencing upper extremity pain, consult your healthcare provider. In addition, physical or occupational therapy may help alleviate symptoms.
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