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WRIST & HAND
De Quervain’s (Mother’s Wrist) Physiotherapy in Richmond
See below how Richmond Physiotherapist can help you
De Quervain’s: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that causes pain along the thumb side of the wrist. It occurs when the tendons responsible for thumb movement become irritated and inflamed, making everyday movements painful.
This condition is commonly referred to as “mother’s wrist” or “mom wrist”, as it often develops in new parents from repeatedly lifting and holding a baby.
De Quervain’s can also affect individuals who perform repetitive gripping, lifting, or thumb movements, including gym users and those with desk-based jobs.
Physiotherapy treatment focuses on reducing tendon irritation, improving movement, and restoring normal wrist and thumb function.
At Richmond Physiotherapist, we provide physiotherapy treatment for De Quervain’s in Richmond to help patients reduce pain and return to daily activities.
What Causes De Quervain’s?
De Quervain’s typically develops due to repetitive stress on the thumb and wrist.
Common causes include:
• lifting and holding a baby (mother’s wrist)
• repetitive thumb movement
• texting or phone use
• gripping and lifting activities
• gym exercises involving wrist strain
• repetitive work-related tasks
These repetitive movements can lead to irritation of the tendon sheath.
Symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
Symptoms may develop gradually and worsen with continued use.
Common symptoms include:
• pain on the thumb side of the wrist
• pain when gripping or lifting
• discomfort when holding a baby or objects
• swelling near the base of the thumb
• reduced thumb movement
• pain with wrist movement
Many patients notice increased pain during lifting or twisting motions.
How Physiotherapy Helps De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
Physiotherapy treatment focuses on reducing irritation in the tendons and restoring proper movement.
During your physiotherapy assessment at Richmond Physiotherapist, we evaluate:
• thumb and wrist mobility
• tendon irritation
• grip patterns
• movement mechanics
• contributing forearm muscle tension
This helps guide a targeted treatment plan.
Physiotherapy Treatments for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
Physiotherapy treatment may include:
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques used to improve joint and tendon mobility.
Exercise Rehabilitation
Specific exercises designed to improve tendon movement and strength.
Dry Needling / IMS
Helps reduce muscle tension in the forearm.
Shockwave Therapy
May be used for persistent tendon irritation.
Movement Education
Advice on lifting technique (especially for new parents), grip patterns, and activity modification.
Physiotherapy treatment focuses on improving tendon capacity and reducing strain on the irritated structures.
During your physiotherapy assessment at Richmond Physiotherapist, we evaluate:
• elbow joint mobility
• forearm muscle strength• wrist movement mechanics
• gripping mechanics
• contributing shoulder and upper limb factors
Understanding these factors helps guide the most effective treatment plan.
When to See a Physiotherapist
You should consider physiotherapy if:
• thumb or wrist pain persists
• lifting a baby causes discomfort
• gripping becomes painful
• wrist movement is limited
• symptoms interfere with daily activities
Early treatment can help prevent symptoms from worsening.
If you are experiencing thumb or wrist pain, physiotherapy can help guide recovery and restore function.
Richmond Physiotherapist provides personalized physiotherapy treatment designed to reduce pain and improve movement.
Book your physiotherapy appointment today to begin addressing your symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mommy thumb?
It’s the nickname for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. New parents get it from repeatedly lifting their baby with the thumb splayed out. The tendons on the thumb side of the wrist get inflamed. It’s extremely common in the first year of parenthood.
Is De Quervain’s from texting too much?
Texting contributes but it’s rarely the sole cause. It’s usually a combination of phone use, lifting, and gripping with the thumb in an awkward position. The common thread is repetitive thumb motion under load.
Should I wear a thumb spica brace?
Yes, especially early on. It immobilizes the thumb and wrist so the irritated tendons get a break. Wear it during aggravating activities and at night. Like all bracing, it’s temporary while we calm things down and build strength.
Will I need a cortisone injection for De Quervain’s?
Sometimes. If bracing and activity modification don’t settle it after several weeks, a cortisone injection into the tendon sheath is very effective for De Quervain’s. It’s one of the few conditions where I refer for injection relatively early because the response rate is high.
Book an appointment
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Every session is 1-on-1, built around your body and your goals. We bill your insurance directly, so you can focus on getting better.