De Quervain Tenosynovitis

De Quervain tenosynovitis is a medical condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. It occurs when the tendons around the base of the thumb, specifically the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus, become inflamed and irritated.

Causes

The exact cause of De Quervain tenosynovitis is not always known, but it is often associated with repetitive movements or activities that involve the thumb, such as:

• Gripping or grasping
• Twisting or turning
• Lifting or carrying heavy objects
• Repetitive motions, such as those used in jobs or hobbies

Symptoms

The symptoms of De Quervain tenosynovitis may include:

• Pain or tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist
• Swelling or inflammation in the affected area
• Difficulty moving the thumb or wrist
• A catching or snapping sensation when moving the thumb
• Numbness or tingling in the thumb or index finger

Diagnosis

De Quervain tenosynovitis is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and medical history. A doctor may perform the Finkelstein test, which involves bending the thumb into the palm, making a fist with the fingers over the thumb, and then bending the wrist toward the little finger. If this movement causes pain on the thumb side of the wrist, it may indicate De Quervain tenosynovitis.

Treatment

Treatment for De Quervain tenosynovitis usually involves a combination of the following:

• Rest and avoiding activities that aggravate the condition
• Ice or heat therapy to reduce pain and inflammation
• Compression with a wrist splint to support the affected area
• Elevation to reduce swelling
• Pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength
• Surgery in severe cases where other treatments have not been effective

Prevention

To prevent De Quervain tenosynovitis, it is recommended to:

• Avoid repetitive movements or activities that involve the thumb
• Take regular breaks to rest and stretch the hands and wrists
• Use proper lifting techniques to avoid straining the wrist
• Wear a wrist splint to support the affected area, especially during activities that may aggravate the condition