This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is Mother’s Thumb?
Mother’s Thumb, medically called De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, is a condition where the tendons around the base of the thumb become irritated and inflamed. It often causes pain when gripping, lifting, or twisting the wrist.
2. Why is it called Mother’s Thumb?
It is commonly called Mother’s Thumb because it frequently affects new mothers who lift their babies repeatedly, causing strain on the thumb and wrist tendons. However, anyone can develop it.
3. What are the main symptoms?
Symptoms include pain and tenderness at the base of the thumb, swelling, difficulty moving the thumb or wrist, and a “catching” or snapping sensation when moving the thumb. Pain is often worse with gripping or lifting objects.
4. What causes Mother’s Thumb?
Repetitive hand and wrist movements, lifting heavy objects, prolonged phone or tablet use, or sudden strain can irritate the tendons. Hormonal changes in postpartum women may also contribute.
5. How is it diagnosed?
A GP can diagnose it with a physical examination. A common test is the Finkelstein’s test, where bending the thumb into the palm and moving the wrist toward the little finger causes pain at the tendon sheath.
6. How is it treated?
Treatment usually starts with rest, avoiding aggravating activities, splinting the thumb and wrist, ice packs, and anti-inflammatory medication. In persistent cases, steroid injections or surgery may be considered.
7. Can Mother’s Thumb heal on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest and activity modification, but most people need some form of splinting or treatment to relieve pain and prevent recurrence.
8. How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies depending on severity and treatment. Mild cases may improve in a few weeks with rest and splinting, while more severe cases may take several months, especially if injections or surgery are required.
9. Can it affect daily activities?
Yes. Pain and reduced thumb movement can make lifting, gripping, writing, or carrying objects difficult. Early treatment usually helps reduce disruption to daily life.
10. How can I prevent Mother’s Thumb?
Avoid repetitive wrist and thumb strain, use ergonomic techniques when lifting or carrying objects, take breaks during repetitive tasks, and consider thumb/wrist supports if needed. For new mothers, using supportive pillows when holding a baby can help reduce strain.
