It’s perhaps one of the lesser-known conditions that can flare up during and after pregnancy – but mother’s thumb can be uncomfortable at best, and painful at worst.
The condition, which goes by the medical name of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, is caused by inflammation of the sheath that surrounds the two tendons that run between the wrist and the thumb. When aggravated, these tendons become thick and swollen, leading to pain that is made worse by pinching, grasping, or wringing movements.
Mother’s thumb is not exclusive to pregnant women – but ladies who are due to deliver or who have just given birth are much more susceptible to a strain in this area, as they will be using their hands more extensively whilst lifting, holding, and moving their baby. It’s also thought that the fluid retention caused by fluctuating hormone levels can contribute to the development of De Quervain’s syndrome.
In a similar way to De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by repetitive overuse – this time, of the wrist.
The carpal tunnel itself is the thin passageway of tendons, ligaments and bones that runs along the anterior portion of the wrist on each hand. When it becomes inflamed as a result of repetitive or overly strained hand movements, this pressure causes pain, numbness and tingling across the hand and up into the arm. Again, carpal tunnel syndrome is very prevalent in the later stages of pregnancy, whilst the body is holding onto much more water; the added swelling can begin to pinch the nerve, leading to the symptoms described above. It is exacerbated by bending the wrist at an acute angle, which compresses the nerves further, specially while you are breastfeeding or holding your little one.
How can mother’s wrist and thumb be treated?
De Quervain’s syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome may be relatively common in pregnancy and beyond – but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer unnecessarily.
There are plenty of ways you can treat both conditions, either at home or with the help of a specialist Hand Therapist.
Treatment involves
-Splinting
-Resting
-Taping
-Activity Modification
Tailored exercise and strengthening programme for your hands and wrists.
If you have any hand or wrist problems make an appointment with our specialist Clare Corrans or speak to one of our receptionists.
