Here are four things to know:
1. According to Beth Berrettoni, MD, a hand surgeon with Hand and Reconstructive Surgeons & Associates in Centerville, Ohio, the condition occurs when the tendons that run across the wrist to attach to the thumb become inflamed, and is often referred to as “mommy’s thumb”.
2. Dr. Berrettoni said wrist tendonitis is often activity related and is usually developed when mothers repeatedly pick up their babies by placing their hands under the baby’s armpits and lifting.
3. “Mommy’s thumb” is an informal term for the tendonitis called De Quervain’s tendonitis. The De Quervain’s tendons are the ones that specifically move the thumb and cross over the wrist on the thumb side.
4. The National Institutes of Health offers these tips for those who develop wrist tendonitis:
- Assess the symptoms
- Treat the symptoms
- Rest and stabilize
- Seek professional advice
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