7 minute readOne such pain is De Quervain Syndrome — more commonly referred to as “mummy thumb” or “mother’s thumb”. So, if you’re experiencing unexplained aches and throbs in the wrist area, this is probably what’s to blame.
But what causes mummy thumb? How can you be sure that you’re suffering from it, and when should you seek medical help? Read on and find out.
What is “mummy thumb”/“mother’s thumb”?
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis goes by many names: mummy’s thumb, mother’s thumb, and baby wrist. It’s a condition caused by an inflammation of the tendons along the thumb side of the wrist.
These tendons run through a narrow tunnel at the base of the thumb (you can see them by lifting your thumb up), and when they’re overused or irritated, the sheath around them flares up and swells. The result? Pain, stiffness and difficulty moving the thumb or wrist. Not much fun.
De Quervain Syndrome isn’t exclusive to mums — or parents for that matter — but all of the most common actions taken during child rearing (like lifting your little one, supporting their head, and twisting your wrist during nappy changes) can take a toll over time.
The good news is that it’s a common condition, and one we know a lot about — making it relatively easy to treat.
How long does mummy thumb last?
It depends on how quickly you realise you’re suffering from it. Because mummy thumb is an inflammatory ailment, letting it go untreated can increase the severity of the condition. Mild cases might resolve in a few weeks with proper care, while more severe cases could persist for months if left untreated, so it’s best to nip it in the bud!
Ignoring the pain and just hoping it'll go away on its own is not the answer. This can — and often will — lead to chronic discomfort, and as we’re sure you’ll agree, that’s not going to be ideal while dealing with a needy tot or yet another sleepless night. In short, listen to your body!
What causes De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
Repetitive strain. When you repeatedly use your wrist and thumb in the same way, you’re putting extra pressure on those tendons, which can lead to irritation and inflammation. You might not expect to get injured from doing such small, simple tasks, but over time, these movements can cause real damage.
For parents, the most common contributors to De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis include:
Lifting your baby: Newborns might be tiny, but they’re not weightless, and repeatedly lifting and carrying them can strain your wrist.
Poor ergonomics: Supporting your baby’s head or holding a bottle at awkward angles can put undue stress on your tendons.
Breastfeeding positions: Cradling your baby’s head during feeding sessions might require your wrist to stay in a fixed, strained position for extended periods.
Household chores: Activities like folding laundry, chopping vegetables, or even scrolling on your phone can exacerbate the issue.
Hormonal changes: The drop in hormones such as estrogen that occurs postpartum can also make your joints more vulnerable.
It’s also worth noting that dads can get “mummy” thumb too — especially if they’re often picking your baby or toddler up!
Will mother’s thumb go away on its own?
It depends. In very mild cases, resting your wrist and avoiding the motions responsible for the damage (perhaps easier said than done!) might be enough to resolve the problem.
Most cases of mother’s thumb require some form of treatment to heal properly, lest the inflammation gets even worse, causing severe pain and decreased mobility. Not ideal if you’re a new parent — you kind of need your hands — so it’s best to be proactive and seek medical advice if you’re experiencing persistent pain or discomfort.
How to treat mother’s thumb
While mummy’s thumb may go away on its own through giving your hands and wrist a rest (if that’s even possible), many cases will require some form of treatment. Fortunately, most of these treatment options are fairly straightforward and not particularly invasive.
Here’s a breakdown of your options:
Rest and modify your activities
The first step is to give your wrist a break. This might mean:
Using your forearm to push your pram or lift your baby, instead of your wrist.
Switching up feeding positions to reduce strain.
Using a baby harness.
Asking for help with household tasks that require repetitive wrist movements.
Ice therapy
Brrrr. Applying an ice pack to the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Just be sure to wrap the ice in a cloth to protect your skin.
Wrist braces
A thumb spica splint or wrist brace can immobilise your wrist and thumb, giving the inflamed tendons a chance to heal. These are often available at pharmacies or online.
Over-the-counter pain relief
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Advil, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult your doctor if you’re breastfeeding, though!
Physical therapy
A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen the muscles around your wrist and improve flexibility. They can also show you ways to modify your movements to avoid aggravating the condition.
Steroid injections
Hopefully, your case of mummy thumb won’t come to this, but for more severe cases, a doctor might recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation. This is a quick and effective treatment, though it’s typically reserved for cases where other measures haven’t worked.
Will exercise treat (or prevent) mummy thumb?
It can — but it’s always best to check with your doctor before using exercises to relieve your pain. If they give you the all-clear, feel free to try some of the exercises below:
Thumb stretches
Hold your hand out with your palm facing up.
Use your opposite hand to gently pull your thumb back until you feel a stretch.
Hold for 15-20 seconds and repeat 3-5 times.
Wrist flexor stretch
Extend your arm in front of you with your palm facing up.
Use your other hand to gently pull your fingers back toward your body.
Hold the stretch for 15-20 seconds and repeat 3-5 times.
Thumb opposition
Touch the tip of your thumb to the tip of each finger on the same hand, forming an “O” shape. Repeat the sequence 5-10 times, focusing on smooth, controlled movements.
Tendon gliding exercises
Make a fist with your hand, then slowly extend your fingers outward, one at a time. Return to the starting position and repeat 5-10 times.
Grip strengthening
Squeeze a soft stress ball or rolled-up sock for a few seconds, then release. Perform 10-15 repetitions daily, ensuring no sharp pain occurs.
When should I see a doctor?
If you’ve tried at-home remedies and your symptoms aren’t improving after a few weeks, it’s time to have a chat with your doctor. If you experience any of the issues below, you should ask for medical help:
The pain is severe and interferes with your daily activities.
You notice a visible deformity or significant swelling in your wrist.
You’re experiencing numbness or tingling in your fingers, which could indicate nerve involvement.
Many mums choose not to ask for help for fear of causing a fuss, but if you think something’s wrong you should really get it fixed — if not for you, then for your baby! A doctor can assess the severity of your condition and recommend the best course of action. In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to release the tendons and relieve pressure.
Mummy thumb might be an unwelcome addition to your postpartum experience, but the good news is that it’s treatable. With a combination of rest, targeted therapies, and a little patience, you’ll be back to cuddling your baby without pain in no time. And remember, it’s okay to ask for help — your hands will thank you for it!
