De Quervain's Syndrome: Wrist Pain in New Parents

Reviewed by the Physiotherapy Team at Waterloo Sports Medicine Centre 

Pain on the thumb side of your wrist when lifting your baby, opening a jar, or gripping objects? You may have De Quervain's syndrome, a common condition that often affects new parents and caregivers. Although it can make everyday tasks uncomfortable, most people recover well with conservative treatment, including physiotherapy, activity modifications, Picture of woman in a pink shirt holding a baby in a yellow shirtand exercises. 

What Is De Quervain's Tenosynovitis? 

De Quervain's syndrome is an overuse condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Specifically, it involves irritation of the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendons as they pass through a narrow tunnel near the base of the thumb. Repetitive movement can cause the tendon sheath to become irritated, making thumb and wrist movements painful. Although commonly called "mommy wrist" or "baby wrist," anyone can develop this condition. 

Why Is It Common in New Parents? 

Caring for a newborn involves frequent lifting, feeding, carrying, and supporting your baby. These repetitive movements often place the wrist in awkward positions, particularly with the thumb extended and the wrist bent, increasing stress on the tendons. 

Hormonal changes, fluid retention during pregnancy, and the demands of caring for an infant may also contribute to the development of symptoms.

Common Symptoms 

Symptoms usually develop gradually and may include: 

• Pain on the thumb side of the wrist 

• Pain when lifting your baby, picking up objects, or gripping 

• Swelling near the base of the thumb 

• Tenderness over the wrist 

• Pain with twisting motions, such as opening jars or turning doorknobs 

• A catching or snapping sensation when moving the thumb in some cases 

Symptoms often worsen with repetitive thumb or wrist movements. 

Who Is at Risk? 

You may be more likely to develop De Quervain's tenosynovitis if you: 

• Are caring for a newborn or young child 

• Perform repetitive gripping or lifting tasks 

• Frequently use your thumbs for texting or gaming 

• Have occupations or hobbies involving repetitive hand movements 

• Are pregnant or recently gave birth 

Although new mothers are commonly affected, fathers, grandparents, and other caregivers can also develop the condition. 

How Can Physiotherapy Help? 

Physiotherapy is often highly effective in reducing pain and restoring normal wrist and thumb function. Your physiotherapist may recommend: 

Activity Modification 

Learning alternative ways to lift and carry your baby can reduce stress on the affected tendons. For example, lifting your baby by supporting them under their body rather than under the arms with your thumbs spread apart may help reduce strain. 

Thumb Spica Splinting 

A thumb spica splint may temporarily limit painful movements and allow the irritated tendons to settle. 

Gentle Mobility Exercises 

As pain improves, specific exercises can help restore thumb and wrist mobility without overloading the tendons. 

Progressive Strengthening 

Gradual strengthening of the thumb, wrist, forearm, and grip muscles helps improve function and reduce the risk of recurrence. 

Manual Therapy and Education 

Hands-on treatment and education on ergonomics, posture, and movement strategies can help improve comfort during childcare and daily activities. 

Tips to Help Prevent De Quervain's Tenosynovitis 

• Lift your baby using your forearms instead of your thumbs whenever possible. 

• Avoid repetitive gripping or pinching for prolonged periods. 

• Alternate hands during feeding and carrying. 

• Take short breaks during repetitive activities. 

• Use supportive pillows while feeding to reduce wrist strain. 

• Strengthen your wrists and forearms as recommended by your physiotherapist. 

  
  

When Should You See a Physiotherapist? 

Consider booking an assessment if you have: 

• Pain on the thumb side of your wrist that lasts more than a few days 

• Difficulty lifting your baby or performing daily activities 

• Pain when gripping, pinching, or twisting objects 

• Swelling near the base of the thumb 

• Symptoms that continue to worsen despite rest 

  
  

Experiencing wrist pain while caring for your baby? The physiotherapists at Waterloo Sports Medicine Centre can assess the cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you care for your little one more comfortably.