Hi everyone!
Welcome to my very first Weekly Bumpdate—a little corner of our blog where I’ll be sharing what it’s like to go through pregnancy while continuing to care for all of you as your chiropractor. I’m officially 27 weeks along, and for the first time, I’m really starting to feel the physical changes that come with this amazing journey.
As baby grows, so does the impact on my body—and it’s been a humbling reminder of the importance of adapting and listening to what my body needs. Lately, I’ve been making some modifications to how I treat patients in the clinic. It’s all part of making sure I stay safe, healthy, and strong enough to keep doing what I love: helping you feel your best.
One big change I wasn’t expecting quite so soon is the onset of pregnancy-related carpal tunnel syndrome.
What is Pregnancy-Related Carpal Tunnel?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by increased pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the wrist. During pregnancy, fluid retention and hormonal changes can lead to swelling in this area, compressing the nerve and causing symptoms like:
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers (especially the thumb, index, and middle fingers)
- Hand weakness
- Wrist or forearm pain
- Difficulty gripping or performing fine motor tasks (like adjusting an activator or even brushing my teeth!)
Let me tell you—it’s no joke trying to adjust patients when your hands are tingly or sore. It’s affecting my day-to-day more than I expected– I can’t even squeeze a tube of toothpaste most mornings! Through this experience I am learning to slow down, stretch more often, and ask for help when I need it.
How Chiropractic Can Help
Fortunately, chiropractic care can actually be a big help when it comes to managing carpal tunnel during pregnancy. Regular adjustments, especially to the wrist, elbow, shoulder, and cervical spine, can relieve nerve pressure and improve biomechanics. I’ve been getting adjusted myself (yes, even chiropractors need chiropractic!) and doing soft tissue work to help reduce inflammation and improve function. Shout out to Dr. Phil for keeping this body in one piece while we figure out a good care plan for me!
I’ve also decided to move forward with cortisone shots to help manage the swelling and discomfort in my wrists. It’s a treatment I’ve carefully considered in order to ensure I can continue working safely and comfortably through the rest of my pregnancy. I will take you all along for the ride and update you on how this treatment helps me!
What’s Next?
I’ll be checking in here from time to time with updates as I head into the third trimester. I want to give you an honest look at what it’s like being pregnant and practicing chiropractic—because it’s a wild, wonderful, and sometimes wobbly balance.
Thank you for being such a supportive patient community. Your understanding and encouragement mean the world to me, especially now. If you have any questions about carpal tunnel, prenatal care, or just want to chat baby names (We’re keeping it a secret but I have a LIST of cute names), don’t hesitate to reach out.
Until next time,
Dr. Mick 💙
