Prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Pregnant Women: A Comparative Study

Objectives Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects pregnant women due to hormonal changes, fluid retention, and increased pressure on the median nerve. Differences in lifestyle and healthcare access between rural and urban populations may influence the prevalence and severity of CTS. This study aims to address these disparities and provide a comparative analysis of CTS in pregnant women from these two populations. This study aims to compare the prevalence and symptom severity of Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) between rural and urban pregnant women and identify the associated risk factors. Material and Methods A cross-sectional survey involving 200 pregnant women (100 rural and 100 urban) was conducted. Data were collected using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) and clinical diagnostic criteria. Results The prevalence of CTS was higher in urban women (75.9%) than in rural women (24.1%), with significant associations observed with occupation, lifestyle, and comorbidities such as obesity. Conclusion This study underscores the importance of understanding the disparities in CTS prevalence between rural and urban pregnant women and highlights the crucial role of lifestyle and occupational factors in shaping these outcomes.