Just gave birth to your bundle of joy and noticed your wrist is hurting? You are likely suffering from mummy’s wrist, a condition in which the tendons in your wrist become inflamed and irritated. This is usually a result of daily tasks such as lifting your baby in and out of the cot, and breast or bottle feeding.
While it is a common condition that countless mothers face, not many truly understand the consequences and importance of getting it treated early.
Learn more: Mum-Related Hand Problems & Tips to Avoid Them
Hence, we will be answering some of the frequently asked questions about mummy’s wrist in this article to help you gain a better understanding of the condition. Keep reading to find out more.
1. What are the common symptoms of mummy’s wrist?
Also known as De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, common symptoms of mummy’s wrist are tenderness and pain at the base of the thumb, swelling and catching or popping sensation when moving the thumb. You may also experience difficulty grabbing items due to limited thumb and wrist movements, as well as discomfort when cradling your baby’s head in your open palm in more severe cases.
2. Will mummy’s wrist heal or go away on its own?
It is common for people to want to wait it out before seeking wrist pain treatment in Singapore and thankfully, the good news is that mummy’s wrist often improves with time, rest, activity modification and medications. Home remedies like applying a warm or cold compress can help to ease pain and inflammation too.
However, it is still recommended that you seek treatment early to prevent your condition from worsening or affecting the other wrist. Early intervention helps you to regain a pain-free lifestyle, allowing you to care for your baby to the best of your ability.
3. When should I see a doctor for mummy’s wrist?
If home remedies are not capable of easing some of the symptoms and you are still feeling pain after two to four weeks, it is advisable that you see a doctor as soon as possible. Severe pain, especially with sudden movements of the thumb or wrist is also a telltale sign that you need wrist pain treatment.
4. What are the treatment methods for mummy’s wrist at a doctor’s office?
When you seek treatment for mummy’s wrist, a hand specialist will usually recommend these non-surgical methods:
- Wearing a splint or brace to immobilise the thumb and wrist to reduce pain
- Prescribing anti-inflammatory medications
- Giving corticosteroid injection to relieve pain and inflammation
- Going to physiotherapy for stretching and strengthening exercises
Nevertheless, if non-invasive treatment methods are ineffective, surgery may be considered. It involves making a small incision over the swollen tunnel to allow the tendons to glide easily.
Learn more: Things to Expect After a Hand Surgery in Singapore
5. What are some ways to prevent mummy’s wrist?
Whether you are awaiting your baby’s arrival or a new mother struggling with wrist pain, it is important to keep some of these tips in mind to prevent mummy’s wrist from developing or recurring.
Get sufficient rest
It is challenging to find time to take a break but rest is crucial to prevent mummy’s wrist from developing. Get your partner to help with heavier tasks such as lifting your baby up, showering the baby and limit smartphone usage as much as possible.
Take note of your breastfeeding position
Some nursing positions can put a strain on your wrist so consider using a breastfeeding pillow to avoid having the full weight of your baby’s head resting in your hand.
Lift your baby the right way
Learn to lift your baby in a way that does not strain your thumb and wrist. All you need to do is get close to your child and slide one hand under your baby’s head and upper back while the other supports your baby’s bottom. This lifting technique distributes pressure across your hands and forearms, reducing the stress on your thumb.
Seek treatment for mummy’s wrist today
Here at Advanced Hand, Wrist & Nerve Centre, our female hand surgeon Dr Jacqueline Tan is committed to helping mothers lead a pain-free life and fulfilling motherhood.
Get your mummy’s wrist treated today – contact us to find out more!
