This service is part of Dr. Neustein’s orthopedic practice, with care provided by both Dr. Neustein and Nurse Practitioner Tayler Mauldin.
Thomas Neustein, M.D.
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Fellowship-trained in hand & upper extremity surgery
Tayler Mauldin
Nurse Practitioner
Introduction
Women experience unique musculoskeletal challenges throughout life—especially during pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and menopause. At Specialty Orthopaedics, Dr. Thomas Neustein and his team provide specialized care for women’s musculoskeletal health with a strong focus on conditions that affect the hand, wrist, and upper extremity. Many of these problems are caused by hormonal changes, weight gain, repetitive tasks, and the physical demands of caring for a baby.
Our goal is to help pregnant women, new mothers, and women at every stage of life find relief from pain, restore strength, and safely return to their daily routine.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Pregnancy and Postpartum
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common conditions affecting pregnant women and new mothers. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, is compressed by swollen wrist tendons and surrounding tissues. This pressure can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index finger, middle fingers, and sometimes the little finger.
Symptoms often get worse at night and may interfere with breastfeeding, baby care, or work. Wearing a splint worn overnight can help keep the wrist in a neutral position and reduce pain. Applying ice or placing the hand in cold water may provide temporary relief.
De Quervain’s Tendonitis (“Mommy Thumb”)
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It is often triggered by lifting a newborn, repetitive wrist movements, and the constant use of the thumb during infant care. This painful condition causes tenderness, swelling, and difficulty gripping. New mothers may notice pain while picking up the baby, fastening a car seat, or even holding a phone.
Nonsurgical treatments include rest, bracing, activity modification, and a corticosteroid injection or steroid injection if pain is severe. A hand therapist or occupational therapist can also teach exercises to stretch the muscles and reduce strain.
Bone and Joint Health in Women
Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, and breastfeeding can affect bones and joints. Swollen joints, wrist pain, or arthritis may appear or worsen during these stages. Pregnancy-related bone health issues, combined with reduced calcium stores after delivery, may also increase the risk of fractures or long-term arthritis. Our team provides comprehensive evaluations and treatment options to support long-term bone strength.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
A proper diagnosis is essential. Dr. Neustein and his team carefully evaluate symptoms, perform a physical exam of the wrist, hand, and arm, and may order imaging when needed. Diagnosis helps determine whether symptoms are due to tendonitis, carpal tunnel, arthritis, or other conditions. This ensures each patient receives a tailored plan designed to reduce pain and improve recovery.
Nonsurgical Treatments
Most women’s musculoskeletal conditions improve with nonsurgical treatments, such as:
- Bracing or splints to keep the wrist in a neutral position
- Activity modification with frequent breaks from repetitive tasks
- Ice or applying cold water to swollen joints to reduce pain
- Stretch and strengthening exercises for the hand, wrist, and forearm
- Therapy with a hand therapist or occupational therapist for guided recovery
Injection Therapy
For women whose pain does not improve with rest and bracing, a steroid injection or corticosteroid injection may be recommended. Injections target inflammation directly at the affected area, such as the thumb side tendons in De Quervain’s or around the median nerve in carpal tunnel syndrome. Many patients feel relief within days and can return to daily activities more comfortably.
Surgical Options
If severe symptoms persist despite conservative care, surgery may be considered. For carpal tunnel, surgical treatment relieves pressure on the median nerve by releasing the tight ligament at the palm. For De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, surgery frees the tendons along the thumb side of the wrist. These outpatient procedures are designed to restore function, reduce pain, and allow women to return to caring for their newborn or resuming work.
Everyday Life After Treatment
With proper treatment, most women return to normal wrist movements, baby care, and daily routines. Therapy, exercises, and frequent breaks are important to prevent recurrence. Our team provides education on ergonomics, safe lifting, and how to wear supportive devices during recovery.
Other Conditions Treated
In addition to carpal tunnel and De Quervain’s, Dr. Neustein treats many other conditions affecting women, including arthritis, tendon injuries, shoulder problems, and fractures. Whether caused by hormonal changes, repetitive strain, or accidents, we provide complete care for the hand, wrist, arm, and upper extremity.
Why Choose Dr. Neustein
Women’s musculoskeletal needs are often overlooked, but our practice makes them a priority. Dr. Neustein is a board-certified orthopedic hand and upper extremity surgeon who combines advanced surgical skill with compassionate care. He and his team in Dawsonville, Braselton, and Duluth are dedicated to helping mothers and women of all ages stay active, pain-free, and healthy.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are experiencing wrist pain, numbness, swelling, or other symptoms related to pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or hormonal changes, Dr. Neustein's team at Specialty Orthopaedics is here to help. Call our office at or request an appointment online today.
