The Aches of Parenthood: Common injuries new parents may face

Becoming a parent is such a joyful and life-changing experience—but it also comes with unexpected physical demands. Between sleepless nights, constant lifting, and repetitive tasks like feeding and rocking, it’s common for new parents to develop aches, pains, and even injuries.

At MVMT, we regularly help new parents recover from and prevent strain-related injuries. Below are some of the most common issues we see in clinic—and how our therapists can help you manage them effectively.

1. Wrist and Thumb Pain (De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis)

What is it? This overuse injury affects the tendons around the base of the thumb and is often caused by repetitive lifting of your baby using awkward wrist positions.

Symptoms someone may experience include pain near the base of the thumb, swelling on the thumb side of the wrist and pain when lifting or gripping.

How we can help: A therapist can show you safe baby-lifting techniques, prescribe wrist stretches and tendon gliding exercises, and recommend splints if needed.

2.  Neck and Upper Back Strain

What is it? Long hours spent feeding, rocking, or looking down at your baby can lead to poor posture and tension in the neck and upper back.

Common symptoms a parent may experience include are neck stiffness, upper back pain and headaches.

How treatment can help: We’ll assess your posture and teach you stretches and strengthening exercises to relieve tension and improve endurance for caregiving tasks.

3. Lower Back Pain

What is it? From frequent bending and lifting the baby to decreased core stability (especially post-pregnancy for mom), the lower back can become a trouble spot for pain and fatigue.

Signs to look for include pain in the lower back or hips, stiffness after sitting, lifting or bending and discomfort when carrying your baby

How treatment can help: Treatment may include manual therapy, core activation exercises, ergonomic advice, and progressive strengthening tailored to your daily routine.

4. Shoulder and Hip Pain from Baby Carrying

What is it? Holding or carrying your baby on one side of your body can create muscle imbalances and overloading of joints.

Typical symptoms include pain in the shoulder or outer hip, weakness or stiffness and discomfort when walking or lifting.

How treatment can help: We’ll work with you on posture correction, mobility exercises, and strengthening to support your shoulders, hips, and core.

Take Care of Yourself So You Can Take Care of Them

If you’re a new parent experiencing discomfort, don’t wait for the pain to go away on its own. MVMT offers safe, effective treatment to help you move better, feel stronger, and enjoy time with your growing family.

Ready to get started? Our team at MVMT is here to support you through every stage of parenthood.

Jason Liang

Physiotherapist, Registered Massage Therapist

Please direct any questions about the article, physiotherapy visits or to learn more about injuries relating to parenthood, email jason@mvmtintegrativemed.com