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Understanding and Managing Mommy Thumb

If you're a new mom, you're likely already juggling multiple tasks, often with your baby in your arms. Between feeding, diaper changes, and holding your newborn, it's no wonder that many moms experience thumb pain, also known as "Mommy Thumb" or de Quervain's tenosynovitis. If you've been struggling with pain at the base of your thumb or feel discomfort when lifting or holding your baby, you're not alone. Becoming a new mom is exciting, and it's also filled with physical demands, some of which may be very new to you and can take a toll on your body. One condition many new mothers experience is Mommy Thumb. This condition is caused by repetitive motion and strain on the thumb and wrist, and it can leave you in constant discomfort. But don't worry – you can manage the pain and prevent further injury with the right strategies. Here's everything you need to know to keep your thumbs healthy and a simple breakdown of solutions for busy moms.

Understanding what Mommy Thumb is, how it develops, and what you can do to manage and prevent it are the keys to getting out of pain.


Busy or Sleepy? Here’s What You Need to Know:


What is Mommy Thumb?

Mommy Thumb is a condition where you experience pain at the base of your thumb. Officially known as de quervain's tenosynovitis, it is named Mommy Thumb because of the frequent occurrence in new moms. Mommy thumb occurs when the tendons that connect the muscles in your forearm to your thumb become inflamed due to repetitive use. The inflammation is most commonly seen in two tendons that run along the side of your wrist and thumb.

Why Does Mommy Thumb Happen?

The repetitive movements of caring for your baby place a lot of strain on your hands and wrists. These tendons control movements like gripping and lifting, and when they're overworked, they become inflamed. Holding your baby, picking them up, or carrying them in one arm over and over again can aggravate the condition. Other repetitive motions, like holding bottles during feedings or pushing a stroller, can also contribute.

mother playing with baby girl

Common triggers of Mommy Thumb include:

  • Repetitive motions like carrying a diaper bag or pushing a stroller.
  • Lifting your baby frequently.
  • Holding your baby in one arm or a repetitive posture for long periods.
  • Gripping a bottle or using your thumb to support your baby during breastfeeding.

Sings and Symptoms of Mommy Thumb

The symptoms can range from mild to severe and often worsen with activity.

Symptoms you might experience with Mommy Thumb may include:

  • Pain at the base of your thumb or wrist.
  • Swelling near the thumb joint.
  • Stiffness or difficulty moving your thumb.
  • Pain radiating up your forearm with certain motions like gripping or lifting.
caring mother bottle feeds her newborn baby. caring for the health of children. artificial feeding of children

Treatment Options for Mommy Thumb

The good news is, with the right approach, you can reduce the pain and heal from Mommy Thumb.

Here's a breakdown of what you can do if you're suffering pain from mommy thumb:

Rest and Modify Activities

The first and most important step is to give your thumb and wrist some rest. Avoid movements that worsen the pain, such as holding your baby with one arm for extended periods or carrying heavy items in a way that strains your hand. This might mean asking for help with baby care or using supportive devices (like a baby carrier) to distribute the weight evenly.

Maintain Good Posture to Reduce Stress

It's easy to overlook your posture when you're carrying your baby or feeding them, but maintaining good body alignment can significantly reduce stress on your thumb and wrist. When your spine and shoulders are properly aligned, it minimizes the strain on your arms and thumbs.

Good Posture Tips for Mommy Thumb
  • Lifting Posture: Always bend your knees, not your back, when lifting your baby. Keep your baby close to your body, and avoid reaching out with your arms. Use your legs to lift rather than strain your upper body.
  • Feeding Posture: Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, make sure to support your arms and wrists with pillows or cushions. Keep your baby at chest level rather than leaning over, which can strain your thumbs unnecessarily.

Pro Tip: Take frequent breaks to adjust your posture, especially if you hold your baby for extended periods.

Ice Therapy for Mommy Thumb

Ice can reduce inflammation and ease pain in the affected area. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the base of your thumb for 10-15 minutes several times a day.

Mommy Thumb Brace or Splint

A thumb splint is a simple yet effective solution. It helps immobilize your thumb and wrist, preventing further strain and allowing the tendons to heal. Wearing a splint at night or during periods of activity can be especially helpful.

Anti-Inflammatory Medication for Mommy Thumb

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce pain and swelling. Always follow the instructions on the label and consult your doctor if you're breastfeeding or have concerns.

Meet Our Hand & Wrist Specialists

Mommy Thumb Stretches and Exercises

Once the pain starts to subside, gentle stretches and strengthening exercises for your thumb, wrist, and forearm can help prevent the condition from recurring. Simple exercises like thumb stretches, wrist flexes, and even squeezing a stress ball can help.

Thumb and Wrist Exercises for Mommy Thumb

Incorporating thumb and wrist exercises into your daily routine can significantly improve flexibility and strength. Regular stretching can help reduce pain and prevent long-term damage. Below are some simple exercises to do at home.

Thumb Stretch:
Strengthening Exercises:

Pro Tip: Consistency is key. Perform these exercises at least 3-4 times per week.

Effective Wrist Exercises:

Pro Tip: To prevent injury, add wrist exercises to your daily routine, especially before you start baby care tasks.

Strengthening your wrist and forearm muscles can help prevent strain on your thumb and alleviate pain from repetitive movements. Wrist exercises are also essential for preventing carpal tunnel syndrome, which can be common among new moms due to the repetitive nature of baby care tasks.

How to Prevent Mommy Thumb

While it's not always possible to prevent Mommy Thumb, there are several things you can do to reduce the risk. Taking proactive steps to prevent pain before it starts is key to long-term relief. Simple changes in your daily habits can help protect your thumbs and wrists from injury.

Pro Tip: A proactive approach to posture, ergonomics, and tools can prevent painful thumb issues in the future.

Alternative Treatment for Mommy Thumb

Certain foods and natural remedies can reduce inflammation and support your body's healing process. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods and practices can be an essential part of your recovery.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods:

Natural Remedies for Mommy Thumb:

Pro Tip: Try adding turmeric and ginger to your diet, as they can significantly reduce inflammation over time.

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Are you suffering from pain?

Please contact us! We'd love to help.

If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your symptoms don't improve or get worse despite these home remedies, it might be time to consult one of our hand specialists. While the symptoms could indicate de Quervain's tenosynovitis, if they aren't improving, it may be another condition requiring medical intervention. We recommend scheduling to see one of our specialists. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment will help you get out of pain faster.

A doctor might suggest these treatment Options:

Pro Tip: Don't wait too long to seek medical advice if your pain isn't improving or worsening. Early intervention can prevent long-term complications.

What Mommy Thumb Isn’t

Don't Ignore the Pain!

Pain at the base of the thumb, or "Mommy Thumb," is a common challenge for new mothers and a condition that can disrupt the joy of baby care. With a little knowledge and care, it's possible to manage the pain and even prevent it from happening again. By adjusting how you lift and hold your baby, practicing rest and self-care, and using support tools, you can ease your discomfort and continue to enjoy time with your little one.

Remember, taking care of your body is an important part of being the best mom you can be. Don't ignore the pain—get the help you need so you can keep being there for your baby pain-free!

Quick Tips Recap: Manage and Prevent Mommy Thumb

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

Treating Runner's Knee Through Strengthening Exercises

Effective exercises for runner's knee focus on strengthening muscles around the knee, improving flexibility, and enhancing stability. These exercises reduce stress on the kneecap and improve joint alignment. Runner's knee exercises are the cornerstone of your knee rehabilitation.


Straight Leg Raises

  • Purpose: Strengthens the quadriceps without placing stress on the knee joint.
  • How-To:
    • Lie flat on your back with one leg bent and the other straight.
    • Tighten the muscles in your straight leg and lift it to the height of the bent knee.
    • Hold for 2–3 seconds, then slowly lower the leg. Repeat 10–15 times per leg.
  • Why It Works for Runner's Knee:
  • Strengthens the quadriceps to support the knee.
  • Improves joint stability without bending the knee.
  • Reduces stress on the patellofemoral joint

Mini Squats

  • Purpose: Builds strength in key knee-supporting muscles while avoiding excessive stress.
  • How-To:
    • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, near a chair or wall for balance.
    • Slowly squat down to about a 45-degree angle, keeping your knees aligned over your toes.
    • Hold for 1–2 seconds, then return to standing. Repeat 10–15 times.
  • Why It Works for Runner's Knee:
    • Strengthens the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes.
    • Helps stabilize the knee joint during movement.
    • Promotes proper alignment to reduce knee strain.

Clamshells

  • Purpose: Strengthens hip muscles to improve knee alignment and stability.
  • How-To:
    • Lie on your side with knees bent at a 90-degree angle.
    • Keeping your feet together, lift the top knee as high as possible without moving your pelvis.
    • Lower the knee slowly. Repeat 10–15 times per side.
  • Why It Works for Runner's Knee:
    • Targets the gluteus medius for better hip stability.
    • Prevents inward knee movement that strains the joint.
    • Enhances overall leg alignment during activities.

Step-Ups

  • Purpose: Strengthens lower-body muscles while mimicking functional movements.
  • How-To:
    • Stand in front of a sturdy step or platform.
    • Step onto the platform with one foot, driving through your heel to bring the other foot up.
    • Step back down with the same foot and repeat. Perform 10–12 reps per leg.
  • Why It Works for Runner's Knee:
    • Builds strength in the quadriceps, glutes, and calves.
    • Encourages proper knee tracking over the toes.
    • Improves balance and stability in functional movement.

Quadriceps Stretch

  • Purpose: Relieves tightness in the thigh muscles to reduce stress on the knee.
  • How-To:
    • Stand on one leg, holding onto a wall or chair for support.
    • Pull the opposite foot toward your glutes, keeping your knees close together.
    • Hold for 20–30 seconds, then switch sides.
  • Why It Works for Runner's Knee:
    • Loosens tight quadriceps that can pull on the kneecap.
    • Improves flexibility and joint movement.
    • Reduces strain on the patellofemoral joint.

Hamstring Stretch

  • Purpose: Reduces tension in the back of the thigh to improve knee alignment.
  • How-To:
    • Sit on the floor with one leg extended and the other bent.
    • Reach toward the toes of the extended leg while keeping your back straight.
    • Hold for 20–30 seconds, then switch legs.
  • Why It Works for Runner's Knee:
    • Loosens tight hamstrings that can pull the knee out of alignment.
    • Enhances flexibility and joint mobility.
    • Helps balance muscle tension around the knee.

Calf Stretch

  • Purpose: Eases tension in the lower leg to reduce stress on the knee.
  • How-To:
    • Stand facing a wall, placing your hands on it for support.
    • Step one foot back, keeping it straight, while bending the front knee.
    • Press the back heel into the floor and hold for 20–30 seconds. Switch legs.
  • Why It Works for Runner's Knee:
    • Loosens tight calves to improve shock absorption.
    • Enhances lower leg alignment during activity.
    • Reduces stress transmitted to the knee joint.

Single-Leg Balance

  • Purpose: Enhances knee stability and improves proprioception.
  • How-To:
    • Stand on one leg with your hands on your hips or out for balance.
    • Hold for 20–30 seconds, gradually increasing the time as your balance improves.
    • For added difficulty, try closing your eyes or standing on a soft surface.
  • Why It Works for Runner's Knee:
    • Strengthens stabilizing muscles around the knee and ankle.
    • Improves body awareness and balance.
    • Reduces improper knee alignment during movement.

Side-Lying Leg Lifts

  • Purpose: Strengthens outer thigh muscles for improved knee tracking.
  • How-To:
    • Lie on your side with your legs straight.
    • Lift the top leg slowly, keeping it in line with your body.
    • Lower it back down without letting it rest. Repeat 10–15 times per side.
  • Why It Works for Runner's Knee:
    • Strengthens the outer thigh to stabilize the knee.
    • Reduces lateral instability.
    • Improves overall knee alignment during movement.

IT Band Foam Rolling

  • Purpose: Relieves tension in the iliotibial band to reduce knee strain.
  • How-To:
    • Lie on your side with a foam roller under the outer thigh.
    • Roll slowly from your hip to just above the knee, pausing on tight spots.
    • Perform for 1–2 minutes per side.
  • Why It Works for Runner's Knee:
    • Loosens the IT band, which can pull on the knee.
    • Improves flexibility and reduces friction around the knee joint.
    • Enhances mobility for smoother movement patterns.
knee doctor shows patient a model of a knee discussing fat pad impingement

Comprehensive Care for Runner's Knee

Have you ever felt a persistent pain in your knee after running, descending stairs, or even just sitting for extended periods? You’re not alone. Runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), is a common condition faced by many active individuals. It’s not limited to professional athletes—anyone who regularly engages in activities like running, jumping, or cycling could be at risk.

Understanding the condition helps to find the best and fastest path to recovery. Read on to gain a detailed understanding of runner’s knee: its causes, symptoms, and strategies for recovery and prevention. Whether you’re dealing with discomfort now or looking to avoid it in the future, the information here will help you make informed decisions for long-term knee health.

What Is Runner's Knee?

Runner’s knee refers to a pain condition affecting the area around or behind the kneecap (patella). Unlike specific injuries like ligament tears, runner’s knee typically arises from overuse, poor mechanics, or muscle imbalances. While it can significantly limit physical activity, it is manageable with the right approach.

Key aspects of runner's knee include:


Why you can trust us:

  • We have multiple highly specialized,  board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons.
  • We know that we serve people - actual humans - not random orthopaedic conditions. That drives us to compassionate care.
  • The world of orthpaedics is constantly evolving.  Our orthopaedic surgeons are constantly evaluating new techniques, tools and methods to serve our community even better.
  • We provide outcome-focused treatment. We work with our patients to achieve their goals, all while developing custom treatment plans that fit our patient's lives.

Want to know more? Visit our website.


Symptoms of Runner's Knee

Recognizing the symptoms early can help you manage runner’s knee effectively. Here are the common signs:

Quick Recap:

Meet Our Orthopaedic Knee Specialists

Risk Factors for Runner's Knee

There are several factors that can increase your likelihood of developing runner’s knee. Understanding and addressing these can prevent the condition or help manage it effectively.

Runner's Knee Risk Factors In Short:

Managing Runner's Knee: Rest and Recovery

If you're dealing with runner's knee, proper rest and recovery are key for healing and preventing further damage to your knee. Here’s how to manage it effectively:

Quick Recovery Tips:

Runner's Knee Exercises - Treatment Through Strengthening Exercises

Effective exercises for runner's knee focus on strengthening muscles around the knee, improving flexibility, and enhancing stability. These exercises reduce stress on the kneecap and improve joint alignment. Runner's knee exercises are the cornerstone of your knee rehabilitation.

Key Exercises Recap:

Click here for more detailed runner's knee exercises.


Need Care Now? POA Has Six Urgent Care Facilities

Monroe

11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831

Plainsboro

5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536

Robbinsville

1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691

Princeton

325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540

Hillsborough

315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

Ewing

200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628

Urgent Care Hours


The Role of Footwear and Supportive Devices

The right footwear and support devices can make a big difference in managing runner’s knee.

Footwear Checklist:

Adopting Correct Running Techniques

Running techniques can greatly influence knee health. Small changes can prevent strain and improve performance.

Technique Tips:

When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist for Runner's Knee

While most cases of runner’s knee improve with rest and care, some symptoms require professional attention.

Here’s when to consult an orthopaedic specialist:

1. Persistent Pain or Swelling

Pain or swelling lasting weeks despite rest and treatment could indicate structural damage.

2. Difficulty Walking or Bearing Weight

Severe pain or instability while walking suggests ligament damage or joint misalignment.

3. Grinding, Popping, or Instability

Sensations of grinding or popping might signal cartilage damage, while knee “giving out” points to weakened ligaments.

4. Visible Changes or Deformities

Misaligned or bulging knees could indicate dislocation or fractures.

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What to Expect During an Orthopaedic Visit

Prevention: Guidance on exercises, footwear, and activity modifications to prevent recurrence.

Diagnosis: A thorough evaluation, often with imaging like MRIs or X-rays.

Treatment: May include bracing, therapy, home exercises, injections, or surgery for severe cases.

Quick Recap: Seek help if you experience:

Timely care from one of our orthopaedic specialists can ensure accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and a faster, safer recovery.

Effective Care for Runner's Knee

Developing runner’s knee can be frustrating, but it’s manageable with the right approach. The foundation of effective care is recognizing the issue early on, resting, doing strengthening exercises, wearing proper footwear, and using correct running techniques.

If you are utilizing all self-care techniques and symptoms persist or worsen, we recommend seeking professional guidance from one of our specialists. This ensures a comprehensive recovery plan tailored to your needs. By taking proactive steps, you can not only overcome runner’s knee but also build resilience to prevent future injuries. Keep moving forward—pain-free!

princeton orthopaedic associates brand shots jersey orthopaedic surgeons 2023 16


Are you suffering from pain?

Please contact us! We'd love to help.

If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

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