Relieving Pain in the Hands after Breastfeeding

So I recently developed a condition that causes pain in the joints after breastfeeding.

Mine in particular was at the base of the thumb and prevented the movement of the top joint.

After research I found out that the name of this condition is De Quervain's Syndrome. It is basically an inflammation of the tendons at the base of the thumb. In the case of the breastfeeding mother, it may come from an awkward positioning of the wrist while breastfeeding or holding the baby.

What I have found as great relief for this condition is to simply apply pressure to the accupressure point known as L1 4 or Joining the Valley (Hoku). It is located between the thumb and index finger, at the highest spot of the muscle that bulges slightly when the two digits are brought towards each other.

Simply turn the hand palm down, put the opposite hands thumb on top, the index finger underneath the palm and directly underneath the thumb and apply pressure. As the pressure is being applied move the thumb of the problem hand back and forth to encourage movement.

Slowly mobility will return.

Now it is important for me to note at this point that this is not just a thumb issue or just a wrist issue. This is a whole arm issue that extends right up to the front of the shoulders. So while you are doing the above mentioned exercise it is important to locate the upper arm bone in its socket. This means rolling the shoulders back and taking the shoulder blade in towards the back while you squeeze L14. The two in combination will bring measurable relief.

The only way to get rid of the problem permanently however is to examine one's arm action while holding the baby or breastfeeding him/her. Make sure the shoulders are rolled back and the chest is open. Also make sure to relax while doing these activities to reduce unnecessary strain.

Please note that this exercise absolutely must be avoided during pregnancy. Reason being that pressing L4 brings on contractions in the uterus prematurely.

It is my pleasure to share this with you.

Namaste,

Asha.