More dads developing 'mummy's wrist'

De Quervain's tenosynovitis, a condition that can arise from caring for babies, causes pain and swelling in the wrist

- Amrita Kaur

In October 2024, Mr Samuel Wong started experiencing pain in his right wrist while caring for his 10-month-old son, Lucas.

What began as mild discomfort quickly escalated into intense pain that made everyday tasks like twisting a doorknob, shampooing his hair and carrying his baby difficult.

"Supporting my baby's head with my right hand and carrying his body with my left hand caused a lot of pain in my wrist," says the 36-year-old corporate communications manager.

He is married to a 34-year-old media professional and they also have a three-year-old daughter.

A general practitioner told Mr Wong that the tendon in his wrist was inflamed. He was referred to an occupational therapist at National University Hospital, who told him he may have De Quervain's tenosynovitis.

It is a condition that causes pain and swelling on the thumb side of the wrist. It occurs when the tendons around the base of the thumb become irritated or inflamed, usually due to repetitive movements or overuse.

This can make it difficult to grip, pinch or move the wrist and thumb without discomfort. The condition is often associated with activities that involve repetitive hand motions, such as lifting a baby, typing and gardening.

"At night, when you're rushing to grab your crying baby and prepare a bottle of milk, the position of your wrist is the last thing on your mind. Those awkward angles likely made it worse," says Mr Wong.

Lucas, who is now 13 months old, weighs 9.7kg.

Mr Wong says of the pain: "I saw it as a badge of honour. My wife joked that she didn't have this issue, but I took pride in being hands-on as a father."

He is among a growing number of men in Singapore developing De Quervain's tenosynovitis as a result of caring for their babies.