De Quervain’s (Mummy Thumb) Physiotherapy in Clapham
Pain on the thumb side of your wrist when you lift your baby, feed, pick things up or open jars? De Quervain’s, often called mummy thumb, is very common, and usually settles with the right care. Olivia offers thorough, unhurried care at our Clapham clinic.
Understanding De Quervain's Tenosynovitis (Mummy Thumb)
As part of our elbow, wrist and hand physiotherapy for women, Olivia treats De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, or mummy thumb, in Clapham, helping you care for your baby and use your hands without pain.
What Is De Quervain's?
NHS Dorset describes De Quervain’s tenosynovitis as irritation of two tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing thickening, pain and sometimes a creaking feeling.
Why Is It Called Mummy Thumb?
NHS Dorset notes it’s common in new mothers. It may be linked to hormonal changes or repeated lifting of a baby with the thumb stretched out. It can also follow gardening, DIY or gaming.
Symptoms
- Pain and swelling on the thumb side of the wrist
- Pain when lifting your baby, gripping or pinching
- Pain when moving your thumb or turning your wrist
- A creaking or catching feeling
Self-Care
NHS Dorset suggests:
- Avoiding repeated wrist movements and sustained gripping where you can
- Ice for 10 to 15 minutes, three times a day
- Paracetamol for pain, and anti-inflammatory gel for swelling
- A splint that supports your wrist and thumb
Lifting and Feeding Your Baby
Small changes make a big difference. Try scooping your baby with your palms facing up rather than lifting under the arms with your thumbs stretched out, and support your wrist with a pillow when feeding. Olivia can show you comfortable ways to lift and feed. Read more about postnatal physiotherapy.
How Physiotherapy Helps
- Splinting advice
- Gentle thumb and wrist exercises
- Advice on lifting, feeding and daily tasks
- Gradual strengthening as pain settles
Injections
If symptoms don’t settle, your GP may discuss a steroid injection. Most people improve with rest, splinting and changes to how they use their hand.
What Happens at Your First Appointment
Your first appointment lasts 60 minutes and takes place in a private room at our Clapham clinic. Olivia will:
- Talk through your symptoms, how you lift and feed your baby, and your goals
- Assess your hand, wrist, elbow, neck and how you use your arm
- Explain what she has found and agree a treatment plan with you
- Give you exercises and practical advice to start at home
Meet Olivia, your Pelvic Floor physio
Chartered Women's Health & MSK Physiotherapist
Olivia Denman
Olivia founded Liv Physio to give women the specialist, unhurried care they deserve, especially those who have felt overlooked by the healthcare system. She is Master’s-qualified, with five years of experience across the NHS and private practice.
She specialises in pelvic floor and urogynaecological conditions, including prolapse, incontinence and pelvic pain, alongside pre- and postnatal care, with advanced training through the POGP. Every appointment is one-to-one, in a safe, judgement-free space where you’ll be truly listened to.
Registered and accredited
Pricing & Appointments
Single Session Initial appointments & follow-ups
A one-to-one, 60-minute appointment with Olivia at our Clapham clinic. Your session includes a thorough assessment, hands-on treatment and a personalised plan, with exercises to continue at home between appointments.
The Clapham Clinic
Inside the clinic
A calm, private space
Liv Physio is ideally situated in the heart of Clapham, London, nestled between the green expanse of Clapham Common and the boutiques of Abbeville Village.
Our clinic at Lion Yard has been designed to feel calm and welcoming from the moment you arrive, with a bright reception, a comfortable waiting area and a private treatment room.
It is a space where you can relax, take your time and talk openly about anything, however personal.
Find us
Clinic location
AddressLiv Physio, 7 Lion Yard, Tremadoc Road, Clapham, London SW4 7NQ
Appointment hoursMonday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
All visits are by appointment only, so please book before coming to the clinic.
Mummy Thumb FAQs
- How long does mummy thumb last?
NHS Dorset notes most symptoms settle with rest and the right activity changes. Many women improve over a few weeks, though some take longer.
- Should I wear a splint for De Quervain's?
A splint supporting your wrist and thumb can help rest the tendons. NHS Dorset suggests wearing it for up to six weeks or during painful activities.
- Can I still breastfeed with mummy thumb?
Yes. Supporting your wrist with a pillow and changing how you hold your baby can make feeding more comfortable.
- Is it caused by pregnancy hormones?
It may be linked to hormonal changes as well as repeated lifting, but the exact cause isn’t clear.
- Do I need a referral for De Quervain's physiotherapy?
No, you can book directly with us. Olivia is happy to work alongside your GP or consultant if needed.
What our patients say
What I’ve appreciated most is how comfortable and at ease she makes you feel. She is kind, understanding and non judgemental, which makes talking about things that can sometimes feel quite personal so much easier. She always takes the time to listen and explains everything clearly, and the exercises are tailored to what I feel comfortable with.
I’m really grateful for all her support and would definitely recommend Olivia to anyone looking for postnatal or pelvic floor support.
Free 15-Minute Initial Consultation Call
This complimentary consultation call is your chance to meet Olivia, discuss your goals, and see if she's the right fit for you. You'll learn about her approach, how physiotherapy can help your condition, and what to expect from sessions including treatment options and pricing.
Please note: No physical treatment, diagnosis or clinical assessment is provided during this consultation.
Get in Touch
We are always on hand to help with any queries you may have.
We suggest you use our contact form to get in touch so we can direct your query to the relevant person.
Call Us or WhatsApp Us
To speak to our specialist, please call us on 020 8058 0762
(our lines are open Monday – Sunday 8am to 8pm).
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Care you can trust
Why choose Liv Physio?
Choosing the right specialist makes all the difference. At Liv Physio, you’ll find expert, unhurried care in a calm and private clinic in Clapham, delivered with warmth and a genuine commitment to getting you the results you deserve.
Specialist care: Women’s health is our focus, not an add-on. Every appointment is with a chartered physiotherapist with advanced training in pelvic health.
Time to listen: Unhurried, one-to-one appointments, so we can understand the full picture and you never feel rushed.
A holistic approach: We look beyond your symptoms to the lifestyle, hormonal and day-to-day factors behind them, using evidence-based treatment.
A safe space: A calm, private, judgement-free clinic where you can talk openly about anything, however personal.