The carpal tunnel is a small space or "tunnel" in the wrist formed by the wrist bones (carpal bones) and a ligament (transverse carpal ligament).  The median nerve and several tendons pass through the carpal tunnel from the forearm to the hand.  The median nerve controls some movements of the thumb, and this nerve supplies feeling to most of the thumb and to the index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger.

Carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy often arises during the third trimester due to fluid retention taking up extra room in the carpal tunnel and compressing the median nerve.  The prevalence rate during pregnancy has been reported as high as 62%.  Tightness in the forearm musculature, thickening of local ligaments, stiffness of carpal joints, and poor mechanics and positioning of the hand and wrist during activities can exacerbate the condition.

Physical therapy treatment aims at reducing stress on the carpal tunnel through manual therapy techniques, modalities, splinting, posture and body mechanics, and therapuetic exercise.

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