When Lifting Your Baby Hurts: What to Know About Mommy’s Wrist

Moms are always on the move—whether cradling a squishy newborn during feedings and naps or chasing after a curious toddler. And while a body in motion stays in motion, sometimes repetitive movements can lead to issues. One such condition is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, commonly known as “Mommy’s Wrist.” This condition causes pain near the base of the thumb and wrist.

Cuyuna Regional Medical Center Orthopaedic Surgeon Susan Moen, MD, diagnoses and treats a variety of conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and elbow, and says this is a common complaint among new moms.

“Moms often experience painful tendons on the thumb side of the wrist,” Dr. Moen explains. “These tendons pass through a tunnel, and if there’s thickening or irritation in that area, the tunnel narrows, causing pain. It’s especially noticeable during motions like grabbing or twisting.”

According to Dr. Moen, symptoms typically appear about 4 to 6 weeks after delivery. “They might feel a swollen or achy pain at the base of the wrist or thumb that comes and goes. It could be due to repetitive motions like lifting the baby or gripping during breastfeeding. Hormonal changes and swelling may also contribute.”

Fortunately, there are non-invasive treatment options. “We can start with a splint, anti-inflammatory medications, hand therapy, or even a steroid injection,” says Dr. Moen. “A steroid shot may provide long-term relief, though results vary from patient to patient.”

If conservative treatments don’t bring relief, surgery may be considered as a last resort.