Being a Mum is one of the most rewarding jobs, but it also comes with its challenges — especially when it comes to the physical demands on your body. 

One condition that many new mothers experience is known as "Mum’s Thumb," or De Quervain's Tenosynovitis. This painful wrist condition can make everyday tasks, like holding your baby, difficult and uncomfortable. 

In this blog, we’ll explore what Mum’s Thumb is, how to recognise it, and how Elite HP’s physiotherapists can help you find relief and get back to enjoying time with your little one.

What is Mum’s Thumb?

Mum’s Thumb, or De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Specifically, it involves the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus tendons, which are responsible for thumb movement. 

When these tendons are overused—often due to the repetitive motions of lifting, holding, and feeding your baby—they become inflamed and rub against each other, causing significant pain and discomfort.

Why Are Mums at Risk?

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis often develops during the postpartum period due to the repetitive tasks involved in caring for a newborn.

Whether you’re cradling your baby’s head, lifting them from their cot, or even just scrolling through your phone while they nap, these small, repeated movements can add up, leading to overuse injuries like Mum’s Thumb.

The tendons in your wrist, particularly those responsible for thumb movement, aren’t used to such heavy, repetitive work, making them susceptible to inflammation and irritation.

Recognising the Symptoms of Mum’s Thumb

The symptoms of Mum’s Thumb can be distressing, especially when they interfere with your ability to care for your baby. Common signs include:

• Pain and tenderness at the base of the thumb, extending into the wrist.

• Swelling in the wrist area.

• A catching or snapping sensation when moving the thumb.

• Difficulty gripping or pinching objects, such as when holding your baby’s bottle or toys.
  

A simple test known as the Finkelstein test can help you determine if you might be suffering from Mum’s Thumb:

1. Start with an open hand.

2. Tuck your thumb into your palm.

3. Wrap your other fingers over the thumb to make a fist.

4. Bend your wrist towards your little finger.

If this movement causes pain near the base of your thumb, it could indicate De Quervain's Tenosynovitis.

How We Treat Mum’s Thumb at Elite HP

We know that being a mum can take a toll on your body, especially when it comes to repetitive tasks that strain your hands and wrists.

At Elite HP, our priority is to help you find relief from Mum’s Thumb so you can focus on caring for your baby without pain.


Soft Tissue Work

We focus on the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus muscles, using specialised soft tissue techniques. 

This targeted approach reduces tension, alleviates pain, and promotes healing by addressing the exact areas where inflammation and friction occur.

Fascia Release

Our physiotherapists employ precise techniques to release the fascial sheath that overlies the inflamed tendons. 

By improving the mobility of the fascia, we can significantly reduce pain and restore smooth, pain-free movement, helping you return to your daily activities with your baby.

Comprehensive Muscle Treatment

Beyond the thumb and wrist, we treat the surrounding muscles in the hand and forearm that have been affected by the inflammation. 

This holistic approach ensures that all contributing factors to your discomfort are addressed, helping to restore full functionality so you can comfortably care for your little one.

Stretching Techniques

We guide you through specific stretching exercises designed to alleviate tension in the affected muscles. 

These stretches provide immediate relief and help to prevent future flare-ups by maintaining flexibility and reducing strain—important for the repetitive tasks of motherhood.

Dry Needling

Dry needling is a highly effective technique we use to target the inflamed tissues directly. 

By reducing inflammation and promoting faster recovery, dry needling can help you return to your daily activities more quickly and with less pain.

Bracing

In cases where additional support is needed, we may recommend using a brace to de-load the tendons and allow them to heal. 

Our physiotherapists will assist you in selecting the right brace and provide guidance on how to use it effectively, so you can continue caring for your baby with minimal discomfort.

Home Management and Prevention 

While professional treatment is essential, there are steps you can take at home to manage your symptoms and prevent recurrence:

Rest and Ice: Resting the affected wrist and applying ice can help reduce inflammation and pain, making it easier to care for your baby.

Ergonomic Adjustments: Make changes to how you hold and lift your baby to reduce strain on your wrist and thumb. Our physiotherapists can provide tailored advice on how to modify your routines to protect your wrists while still caring for your little one.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Continue the exercises recommended by your physiotherapist to maintain flexibility and build strength in the affected area, helping you stay strong and pain-free as you navigate motherhood.

Use Anti-inflammatory Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory creams, gels, or oral medications like ibuprofen can help reduce swelling and pain. Always consult your doctor, especially if you’re breastfeeding.

Take Action

If you’re experiencing symptoms of Mum’s Thumb or have concerns about wrist pain, don’t wait. Contact our team  today to schedule an appointment and start your journey to recovery, so you can get back to what you love most—caring for your baby.