THE ASSOCIATION OF TRIGGER FINGER WITH CARPEL TUNNEL SYNDROME IN PREGNANT WOMEN

Abstract

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) are two common hand conditions that frequently occur during pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations, fluid retention, and increased intracarpal pressure. While both conditions share similar pathophysiological mechanisms, their association in pregnant women remains underexplored. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the association of trigger finger and carpel tunnel syndrome among pregnant women. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 114 pregnant women aged 18–40 years recruited from gynecology wards of government and private hospitals. Participants were selected using non-probability purposive sampling. Data collection tools included the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) for symptom severity and functional status, and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain intensity. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. Results: The mean age of participants was 32.10 ± 4.77 years. Most women were in their third trimester, with 36.8% at eight months of gestation. Regarding parity, 43% had 2–3 previous pregnancies. BCTQ results showed moderate symptom severity for night pain (3.11 ± 1.20), numbness (3.04 ± 1.15), and tingling (3.00 ± 1.28). Functional difficulties were moderate for activities including buttoning clothes (3.07 ± 1.29) and opening jars (3.07 ± 1.18). Mean NPRS score was 2.90 ± 0.76, with 41.2% reporting moderate pain. Normality testing confirmed non-parametric distribution (p < 0.05). A significant negative correlation was found between night pain severity and daytime pain frequency (p = 0.023), supporting the progressive nature of CTS during pregnancy. Conclusion: Carpal tunnel syndrome is highly prevalent among pregnant women, particularly during the third trimester, with moderate symptom severity and functional impairment. A significant association exists between CTS and trigger finger, suggesting shared underlying mechanisms including hormonal changes, fluid retention, and inflammation. Early screening and conservative management should be integrated into routine antenatal care