Postpartum Carpal Tunnel: Relief & Recovery After Delivery

Question
Hi, I began to experience carpal tunnel syndrome during my 30th week of pregnancy. I am now about 7 weeks postpartum but I am still experiencing a lot of stiffness in my fingers when sleeping at night. It is not so much the tingling "hands and arms falling asleep" feeling that I had during pregnancy, but more like I have a lot of stiffness either stretching my fingers if my hands were clenched during sleep, or else difficulty closing my hands if my fingers were stretched during sleeping. Is it normal to still be experiencing carpal tunnel almost 2 months after giving birth? What can I do to relieve it? Thanks!

Answer
Dear Jenny,

I am sorry that you are experiencing pain.  It is common for postpartum women to experience this condition.  You can do simple exercises to relieve the pain - circular motions with wrists, fingers and thumbs.  Flex and extend wrists, fingers and thumbs.  Clasp and unclasp fingers.  Repeat few times a day.  Make sure that you are not supporting the weight of your baby while breastfeeding, insert pillows underneath your elbows.  Good luck!

Anna