De Quervain’s Tendinosis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of De Quervain’s tendinosis?

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, also known as De Quervain’s tendinosis, is a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. The symptoms of De Quervain’s tendinosis typically include:

1. Pain: Pain on the thumb side of the wrist is a hallmark symptom. The pain may radiate up the forearm or down into the thumb.
2. Swelling: Swelling may be present at the base of the thumb where the affected tendons are located.
3. Difficulty moving the thumb and wrist: You may experience difficulty moving your thumb and wrist, especially when grasping or pinching objects.
4. Tenderness: The area over the affected tendons may be tender to the touch.
5. Stiffness: Stiffness in the thumb and wrist, particularly in the morning or after periods of rest, is common.
6. Catching or snapping sensation: Some people with De Quervain’s tendinosis may feel a catching or snapping sensation when moving the thumb.

These symptoms can vary in intensity and may worsen with activities that involve repetitive thumb and wrist movements, such as lifting, gripping, or twisting motions. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What are the causes of De Quervain’s tendinosis?

De Quervain’s tendinosis is typically caused by repetitive movements or overuse of the wrist and thumb, leading to irritation and inflammation of the tendons in the thumb side of the wrist. Some common causes and risk factors include:

1. Repetitive hand and wrist movements: Activities that involve repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as typing, texting, using a mouse, or lifting heavy objects, can strain the tendons and lead to De Quervain’s tendinosis.
2. Direct trauma: A direct blow or impact to the thumb or wrist can injure the tendons and contribute to the development of De Quervain’s tendinosis.
3. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the soft tissues in the body, including the tendons, and may increase the risk of developing De Quervain’s tendinosis.
4. Age: The risk of developing De Quervain’s tendinosis increases with age, as the tendons tend to become less flexible and more prone to injury.
5. Certain activities: Certain activities or occupations that involve repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as knitting, gardening, or playing musical instruments, may increase the risk of developing De Quervain’s tendinosis.
6. Anatomical factors: Some people may have anatomical factors, such as a narrower tunnel that houses the tendons (known as the tendon sheath), which can increase the risk of irritation and inflammation of the tendons.
7. Inflammatory conditions: Inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can increase the risk of developing De Quervain’s tendinosis.

It’s important to avoid activities that exacerbate symptoms and to seek treatment if you suspect you have De Quervain’s tendinosis. Treatment typically includes rest, immobilization, and physical therapy to help reduce inflammation and improve the strength and flexibility of the affected tendons. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to release the affected tendons.

What is the treatment for De Quervain’s tendinosis?

The treatment for De Quervain’s tendinosis, a condition involving inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, typically involves a combination of rest, immobilization, medication, and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Here are some common treatment options:

1. Rest and immobilization: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms and immobilizing the wrist and thumb with a splint or brace can help reduce inflammation and allow the tendons to heal.
2. Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Ice therapy: Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and pain.
4. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the muscles around the wrist and thumb, improve range of motion, and promote healing.
5. Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, a corticosteroid injection into the tendon sheath can help reduce inflammation and pain.
6. Ultrasound therapy: This therapy uses high-frequency sound waves to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the affected tendons.
7. Surgery: If conservative treatments are not effective, surgery may be recommended to release the affected tendons and relieve pressure on the tendon sheath.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for De Quervain’s tendinosis. Treatment outcomes are generally good with appropriate management, and most people can expect significant improvement in symptoms with conservative treatments.