What is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that causes pain and swelling in the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It occurs when the tendons that move the thumb become irritated or inflamed, making everyday activities like gripping, pinching, or turning the wrist painful.

Symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis:

• Pain and swelling near the base of the thumb
• Difficulty gripping or pinching objects
• Pain that worsens with wrist or thumb movement
• A catching or snapping sensation when moving the thumb
• Tenderness along the thumb side of the wrist

Causes and Risk Factors:

• Repetitive hand and wrist movements (e.g., lifting, texting, typing)
• Overuse of the thumb, common in new parents or caregivers
• Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
• More common in women, especially between ages 30-50
• Pregnancy and postpartum hormonal changes

Diagnosis:

Your surgeon will evaluate symptoms and may perform the Finkelstein test, where the thumb is bent into the palm and the wrist is moved downward to check for pain.

Treatment Options:

• Non-Surgical Treatments:
  • Resting the hand and avoiding repetitive movements
  • Wearing a thumb splint to support and immobilize the wrist
  • Applying ice to reduce pain and swelling
  • Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) for pain relief
  • Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
  • Physical therapy and hand exercises to improve mobility
• Surgical Treatment:
  • In severe cases, a minor procedure may be performed to release the tight tendon sheath and relieve pressure.

If you experience ongoing wrist pain or difficulty with thumb movement, schedule a consultation with us to discuss the best treatment options for