How to Combat a New Mom's Tendinitis

Sometimes called "mother's wrist" or "mommy thumb," de Quervain's tendinitis is caused by repetitive hand or wrist movement, such as lifting your baby. It occurs when the tendons around the base of the thumb are swollen, irritated or constricted, causing pain and tenderness along the thumb side of the wrist. The pain is often more severe when grasping, gripping, forming a fist or turning the wrist. If treatment is started early, symptoms of de Quervain's tendinitis typically improve within four to six weeks.

Instructions

• 1

  Avoid repetitive hand, wrist and thumb movements as much as possible. Try not to pinch with your thumb while moving your wrist from side to side.

• 2

  Apply ice to the thumb and wrist for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the ice for at least 45 minutes. Repeat as necessary to reduce pain and swelling.

• 3

  Note which activities cause pain, swelling or numbness in your thumb and wrist. Avoid these activities as much as possible. Share your list of activities with your doctor.

• 4

  Use a splint or brace to immobilize your thumb and wrist. Follow your doctor's advice regarding what kind of splint or brace to use and how often and how long to wear it.

• 5

  Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Follow the instructions on the label regarding dosage. If over-the-counter NSAIDs don't reduce swelling and relieve pain, talk to your doctor about prescription NSAIDs.

• 6

  Discuss corticosteroids with your doctor. Corticosteroids injected directly into the sheath of the tendon may reduce swelling and pain.

• 7

  Ask your doctor for a referral to a physical therapist or occupational therapist. Share your list of activities that cause pain with the therapist. The therapist will teach you exercises to strengthen your wrist, hand and arm muscles and reduce pain and tendon irritation. The therapist may also evaluate your splint or brace and order a custom-made splint or brace if the fit isn't optimal.

• 8

  Consider surgery if no other method of treatment is providing relief. Discuss the possibility of surgery with your doctor.