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Writer's pictureJustin Prenioslo

Understanding De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: "Mommy Wrist"

Updated: Jun 11

If you're a mom who frequently lifts and carries a toddler, you may have experienced pain in your wrist and thumb. This condition, known as De Quervain's Tenosynovitis or "Mommy Wrist," is common among mothers. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and how in-home physiotherapy can help, is crucial to managing and alleviating the pain.

Mom lifting a baby up in the air  which can be a common cause for mommy wrist.

What is De Quervain's Tenosynovitis?

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. The repetitive lifting of your child can cause inflammation of these tendons, leading to pain and difficulty in moving your thumb and wrist.


Symptoms of De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

  • Pain and swelling near the base of your thumb

  • Difficulty moving your thumb and wrist when you're doing something that involves grasping or pinching

  • A sticking or stop-and-go sensation in your thumb when moving it

Why It's Called "Mommy Wrist"

The condition is often referred to as "Mommy Wrist" because it commonly affects new mothers. The repetitive motions of lifting, carrying, and feeding a baby can strain the tendons in the wrist and thumb. This overuse can lead to inflammation and pain, making daily tasks challenging.


Picture describing the anatomy of the De Quervain syndrome


How In-Home Physiotherapy Can Help

1. Personalized Assessment and Treatment: In-home physiotherapy allows a physiotherapist to assess your specific situation in the comfort of your home. They can observe how you lift and carry your child and provide personalized advice and exercises to reduce strain on your wrist.

2. Exercises to Strengthen and Stretch: A physiotherapist will guide you through exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the affected tendons and improve flexibility. This can help alleviate pain and prevent the condition from worsening.

3. Ergonomic Advice: Proper ergonomics can make a big difference. Your physiotherapist can teach you techniques for lifting and carrying your child that minimize stress on your wrist and thumb.

4. Pain Management Strategies: Techniques such as massage, stretching, and the application of heat or ice can be used to manage pain and inflammation effectively.


Contact Stork Mobile Physiotherapy

At Stork Mobile Physiotherapy, we're here to help you manage and overcome De Quervain's Tenosynovitis. Our in-home physiotherapy services provide the support and treatment you need without the hassle of traveling to a clinic. Schedule your appointment online here or contact us at 587-606-2291.

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