New mothers' common occupational hazard: Taiwan's health agency offers 4 tips to prevent 'mommy's thumb'

New mothers in Taiwan are increasingly suffering from "mommy's thumb," a painful condition also known as De Quervain's tenosynovitis. The condition primarily affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain and swelling that can impede movement.

The condition is largely attributed to repetitive strain and poor posture during essential childcare tasks like breastfeeding, holding a baby, and expressing milk. The National Health Administration's (NHA) pregnancy and childcare website highlights that prolonged, repetitive motions, especially with the wrist bent at a near 90-degree angle, contribute significantly to the inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath.

To mitigate the risk, the NHA advises mothers to maintain comfortable, relaxed postures while breastfeeding and holding their babies, avoiding prolonged wrist flexion. Wearing a wrist brace can offer support, and regular stretching of the shoulder and wrist muscles is recommended. For mothers expressing milk, a specific technique involving a pillow to support the breast can help maintain a more relaxed and efficient position, allowing milk to flow more easily while reducing strain.

Preventative exercises are also suggested, such as standing with your hand flat against a wall, parallel to your body, and slowly sliding your fingers upward. This simple stretch aims to relax the muscles in the shoulder and wrist, offering a way to counteract the repetitive stress of new motherhood.