Ways to ease mommy’s thumb

Happiness has no bounds when you cuddle and hold your baby. We read all the blogs, books and pages on the internet, to update ourselves on how to take care of the baby. But sometimes we forget to know those tips and tricks to prevent aches and pains post-pregnancy. Postpartum or post-pregnancy there are so many changes still happening in the body due to hormones.

Painful wrist and thumb are very commonly seen in new moms and even dads due to repetitive action of picking up and holding the baby, changing the diaper, putting in and out of car seat etc.

Definitely, we want you to continue doing these activities as its best way to bond with the baby, but let’s look into the causes of those aches and pains you may be having and prevent, self test and ease them before it becomes a ongoing problem.

What is Mommy’s thumb/ Dequirvain’s Tendinitis

Mommy’s thumb or Dequirvain’s tendinitis is inflammation of tendons around your thumb and wrist. Pain is typically dull achy and the area near the thumb is tender to touch. You might notice swelling, redness or warmth in acute phase.

How to self test

Check out this video to self assess the reason for your pain.

How to ease the pain

• Icepack: Icepack works wonders in the acute phase of inflammation. If the pain is chronic for more than 3-4 weeks and you do not notice any warmth or swelling, you may use a heating pack.
• Gentle range of motion: You do not want your thumb to get stiff. Gentle movements help to improve blood circulation and ease stiffness.
• As pain improves start with some exercises to strengthen your finger and thumb and wrist muscles.
• If pain is severe you may briefly use a splint or brace to prevent stress.
• See a physical therapist, get your condition assessed properly and treat it before it becomes a chronic condition.

Tips to prevent painful thumb

“Prevention is always better than cure!“

• Follow right body mechanics while lifting the baby. So instead of picking up the baby u holding under the arms by stretching your thumb out, try scooping the baby under the bottom by keeping your palms facing up and wrist neutral.

• Follow right body mechanics while lifting the baby. So instead of picking up the baby u holding under the arms by stretching your thumb out, try scooping the baby under the bottom by keeping your palms facing up and wrist neutral.

Happy motherhood!