Life revolves around the simple motions of your hands – lifting, gripping, texting, holding. When pain at the base of your thumb or wrist disrupts these movements, it can become a daily struggle.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is one such condition that can make even the smallest tasks feel like monumental challenges.
Alliance Orthopedics understands how important your hands are to your independence. Our specialists are here to help you relieve pain, reduce swelling, and get back to life as usual without the hassle of wrist surgery.
What is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis occurs when the tendons around your thumb become irritated or inflamed. These rope-like structures pass through the first extensor compartment of the wrist. When they become swollen, they cause pain, stiffness, and limited motion in the affected area.
While the exact cause may vary, repetitive wrist motion, overuse, or underlying health conditions like inflammatory arthritis or too much uric acid may contribute to the condition.
This inflammation can cause painful swelling that limits even simple tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or gripping a tennis ball.
What Does De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Feel Like?
If you’re wondering whether your discomfort might be De Quervain’s, here are some telltale signs:
- Sharp or dull pain near the base of your thumb on the thumb side of the wrist.
- Swelling or tenderness around the wrist joint or tendon sheath.
- A catching or locking or tingling sensation in the tendons when moving your thumb.
- Reduced range of motion or difficulty gripping objects like a rope or handle.
Ignoring these symptoms may lead to worsening pain and stiffness, so early diagnosis is important.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
At Alliance Orthopedics, our specialists use a thorough, patient-centered approach to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
We Evaluate Your Medical History
A doctor will start by asking about your hand and wrist pain and specific symptoms, such as:
- When the pain started.
- Activities that cause pain, such as repetitive wrist motion or gripping objects.
- Any swelling or tenderness on the palm side or thumb side of the wrist.
Finkelstein Test
This simple and reliable test helps confirm the diagnosis. You’ll be asked to bend your thumb toward your palm or make a fist around it. Sharp pain during this motion is a strong indicator of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis.
Additional Checks
- The doctor may test your grip strength and look for signs of painful swelling or a reduced range of motion.
- Imaging tests, such as X-rays, are rarely needed but may be used to rule out conditions like ganglion cysts, carpal tunnel syndrome, or fractures.
Causes of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis occurs when the tendons in the first extensor compartment are irritated or inflamed. Common causes include:
- Repetitive Movements: Typing, texting, or lifting heavy objects can strain the tendons and cause pain over time.
- Overuse: Repeated gripping or twisting motions without regular breaks can lead to this condition.
- Common Injuries: A direct wrist injury or trauma to the base of the thumb can cause swelling in the tendon sheath.
- Postpartum Tendon Changes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy or postpartum often lead to a condition called “Mommy Thumb.”
- Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory arthritis, or excess uric acid can increase inflammation in the affected area.
Risk Factors for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
Certain factors can make individuals more likely to develop De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, such as:
- Age: Most common in individuals between 30 and 50 years old.
- Gender: Women, especially during pregnancy or postpartum, are more likely to develop this condition.
- Occupation or Hobbies: Repetitive activities, such as knitting, gardening, or playing musical instruments, increase strain on the tendons.
- Physical Strain: Regular heavy lifting with awkward grips can contribute to pain and swelling.
Treatment Options for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
At Alliance Orthopedics, various treatment options are available for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, from simple lifestyle adjustments to advanced medical interventions:
1. Lifestyle Adjustments
We suggest lifestyle adjustments to help reduce repetitive wrist motion. Also, we recommend taking regular breaks from activities can significantly relieve wrist pain.
2. Splints and Bracing
Our doctors recommend using a wrist splint or brace to immobilize the affected area, allowing the tendons to rest and heal effectively.
3. Medical Interventions
- Shockwave Therapy: We use sound waves to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Laser Therapy: Our laser therapy is non-invasive, and effective for reducing swelling and restoring function.
- Injections: We inject Corticosteroids to provide targeted relief for severe cases.
4. Occupational Therapy
Our therapists specialize in guiding patients through safe, effective modifications to prevent repetitive stress and improve mobility.
Find Relief at Alliance Orthopedics
Not all wrist pain is normal. It could be De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, and it won’t improve without proper care.
Don’t let De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis impact your life. Schedule a consultation with Alliance Orthopedics today and explore personalized treatment options to ease your pain, reduce swelling, and regain your mobility.
