Brittany Mahomes diagnosed with painful “mother’s injury,” bringing attention to an often-overlooked postpartum health issue

Brittany Mahomes is going through a lingering wrist injury at the same time Patrick Mahomes pushes through a crucial phase in his recovery with the Kansas City Chiefs. The couple is dealing with two very different health challenges this offseason. Patrick is working his way back from a torn ACL suffered late in 2025, with optimism growing around his return timeline. Meanwhile, Brittany has opened up about a painful condition that has quietly affected her for nearly a year, adding a personal layer to an otherwise football-focused offseason.While Patrick focuses on football, Brittany Mahomes is managing a condition that is far less visible but just as disruptive. She revealed on Instagram that she has been dealing with De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, often called “Mother’s wrist,” for about a year.“To find out I have this,” Brittany wrote. “Been battling it for probably around a year now thinking it will get better, well it never did and started to get pretty bad…so now I get to wear this cool thing.”The condition is linked to overuse of the wrist and thumb. Medical experts explain that the tendons in that area run through a narrow tunnel, and repeated strain can cause inflammation. Everyday movements, especially lifting and carrying children, can put the wrist in awkward positions that gradually lead to pain.Symptoms tend to build slowly. Pain at the base of the thumb is common, often worsening with simple motions like gripping or twisting. Swelling can follow, and in some cases, a small lump may form due to irritation.Brittany’s experience highlights something easy to overlook. Injuries are not limited to the field. While Patrick rehabs under structured supervision, Brittany’s condition comes from daily routines that rarely pause. Even so, she has remained active, showing that the grind of recovery takes different forms.The Chiefs are approaching the early stages of offseason work, with organized team activities scheduled from May 26 to 28. While there is no expectation of full contact, the sessions offer a first real glimpse into Patrick Mahomes’ recovery.Head coach Andy Reid struck a measured but encouraging tone when discussing his quarterback’s progress. “He is in a good position to be able to do some things,” Reid said. “If he can do some things, [he’ll do it]. Phase 2, remember, there’s no contact and there’s no offense versus defense.”That distinction matters. At this stage, participation is more about movement and rhythm than competition. Still, even limited involvement would signal that Mahomes is on track. A torn ACL often demands patience, and the Chiefs are unlikely to rush their most valuable player. Yet Reid’s comments suggest the recovery has stayed on course, which is all the team can ask for in early May.There is also a broader context here. Kansas City’s offseason has been built around stability, and Mahomes’ gradual return plays into that. If he can ease into OTAs without setbacks, it sets a steady tone heading into the summer.