Rehab

Treat and prevent "mommy thumb" with OT

Rehab Regs, January 13, 2005

It's a rare-sounding ailment, but as many as 50% of new mothers develop it, according to Parenting. It's deQuervain's tendinitis, an irritation of the thumb tendons that cause anything from mild soreness to an intense pain that radiates up the wrists. The trigger is the habitual picking up of a child by hooking your hands under his or her arms, especially if your hands are angled downward, because it puts increased pressure on the tendon. Physicians suggest modifying your baby-lifting technique and taking over-the-counter painkillers for moderate pain, but if it persists for over a month, splinting, occupational therapy, or minor surgery are other options, reported Parenting.

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