Mum thumb! And what to do about it.
De Quervains Tenosynovitis (commonly called Mummy Thumb) is a painful and often debilitating condition where the tendons of the wrist and thumb become inflamed. New Mumma’s most commonly experience this which can be due to the repetitive nature of caring for your babe and a dramatic increase in the load placed on these tendons, generally something these muscles and tendons are not used to!
It can also occur in pregnancy and can be due to increased swelling causing pressure and irritation over the tendons.
Common symptoms
- Pain and or weakness with gripping, lifting, carrying, opening doors/jars
- Pain caring for baby such as lifting, holding, nappy changing, holding the carrier
- Pain with phone and computer use
- Swelling over the thumb or wrist
- Clicking sounds/feelings
Physio management
Rest from aggravating factors
Ice
Bracing/taping
Massage and release of the forearm muscles
Postural and ergonomic advice
Modified grip & positioning for holding and feeding your babe
Strengthening program for overloaded tendons
Self management strategies
Avoid aggravating factors, delegate provocative tasks to other family members where possible
Avoid opening jars, doors with affected side
Scoop grip (thumb in close)
Ice packs
Speak to your pharmacist for antiinflammatories (if apropraite for you)
Wear your support brace
Stop repetitively scrolling on your phone (yes you heard us!)
If you are experiencing symptoms of Mum Thumb, our physios can provide an individualised assessment and treatment plan, to help get your symptoms under control and get you back to doing your daily activities pain free!
***Disclaimer: Blog is for general education only, please seek an individualised assessment and treatment plan with a pelvic health physio