De Quervain Disease

De Quervain disease, also known as De Quervain tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. It occurs when the tendons around the base of the thumb are irritated or constricted.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of De Quervain disease is not known, but it is believed to be related to:

• Overuse or repetitive strain on the wrist and thumb
• Direct injury to the wrist or thumb
• Rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions
• Pregnancy or menopause, due to hormonal changes
• Genetic predisposition

Symptoms

The symptoms of De Quervain disease may include:

• Pain or tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist
• Swelling or redness in the affected area
• Crepitus, a creaking or grinding sensation when moving the wrist or thumb
• Difficulty grasping or gripping objects
• Pain when forming a fist or turning the wrist

Diagnosis

De Quervain disease is typically diagnosed based on:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Finkelstein test, which involves bending the thumb into the palm and then bending the wrist towards the little finger to assess for pain or tenderness
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays or ultrasound, to rule out other conditions

Treatment Options

Treatment for De Quervain disease may include:

• Rest and ice to reduce pain and inflammation
• Compression bandages or splints to support the wrist and thumb
• Elevation of the affected arm to reduce swelling
• Pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength
• Surgery, in severe cases where other treatments have failed

Prevention

To prevent De Quervain disease, it is recommended to:

• Avoid repetitive strain on the wrist and thumb
• Take regular breaks when performing activities that involve the wrist and thumb
• Use proper technique when lifting or gripping objects
• Wear a splint or supportive device to protect the wrist and thumb during activities
• Maintain good overall health, including managing any underlying medical conditions

Complications

If left untreated, De Quervain disease can lead to:

• Chronic pain and stiffness in the wrist and thumb
• Reduced range of motion and strength in the affected area
• Nerve damage or compression
• Increased risk of developing other conditions, such as tendonitis or arthritis

Prognosis

The prognosis for De Quervain disease is generally good, with most people experiencing significant improvement in symptoms with treatment. However, in some cases, the condition can be chronic and require ongoing management.