Understanding De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis “Mum’s Wrist”

Understanding De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis “Mum’s Wrist”: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Mum’s Wrist De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, also known as “mother’s thumb”, is a painful condition caused by inflammation of two tendons that control thumb movement. These tendons (abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis) become irritated as they pass through a narrow tunnel (the first dorsal compartment) on the thumb side of the wrist, leading to pain and discomfort at rest or while moving.

These tendons usually become irritated through repetitive wrist or thumb movements, direct trauma, or sometimes due to underlying wrist arthritis. They can swell and cause significant discomfort at the base of the thumb and wrist. In severe cases a nodule can form at the site.

Colloquially, the condition is referred to as “mother’s wrist” as it frequently affects new parents and caregivers who repeatedly lift and carry babies and infants. Although it is most commonly seen in women aged 30 to 50, De Quervain’s can affect anyone, regardless of gender or caregiving responsibilities.

Fortunately, a range of treatment options is available to help conservatively manage and relieve symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis:

• Splinting: Customised thermoplastic splints can restrict thumb and wrist movement, allowing tendons to rest and heal.
• Kinesio taping: Special elastic tape may be applied to reduce inflammation and support proper tendon movement.
• Soft tissue massage: Therapeutic massage can improve fluid drainage and reduce swelling
• Activity modification: Adjusting daily habits can help reduce strain. For example, new parents may be advised to lift their baby by scooping from under the bottom, with the thumbs tucked in, instead of lifting under the arms with the thumbs extended.
• Range of motion (ROM) exercises: Once pain and swelling subside, gentle exercises can help restore mobility and promote tendon gliding.
• Corticosteroid injections: If conservative measures are not effective, a corticosteroid injection can reduce inflammation and provide significant relief, however, it has been shown that these work best alongside hand therapy treatment plans.

If you think you are experiencing De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, book in to see a hand therapist at Action Rehab The Hands Physio for assessment and treatment!

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