De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is an inflammation of the tendon sheath (synovium) at the base of the thumb.
The tendons that move the thumb have become constricted in a tight tunnel and the inflammation comes from the friction created as the tendon glides along the thumb with repeated movements. This leads to pain and numbness.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is caused by chronic overuse of the wrist due to daily, repetitive movements. It could also be caused by inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and past wrist injury that causes scar tissue to restrict movement of the tendons.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is also a common condition among mothers due to daily activities such as cradling an infant while nursing, lifting a child into a highchair or car seat, or carrying heavy bags of groceries.
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis symptoms
- The main symptom is pain and tenderness over the wrist joint near the base of the thumb.
- Pain that gets worse after increased activity involving the wrist, thumb, and hand.
- Pain that begins as an aching sensation and progresses to a point when any movement of the wrist or thumb produces a sharp pain in the affected area.
- Swelling near the base of the thumb.
- Numbness along the back of the thumb and index finger.
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis risk factors
- More common in women.
- Common in individuals aged between 30 to 50 years old.
- Chronic overuse due to work nature or activities that involve frequent, repetitive hand and wrist motions day after day.
- Fluid retention due to hormonal changes during pregnancy may contribute to De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis.
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis diagnosis
Your doctor would first question your general health and symptoms before conducting a thorough physical examination on your wrist, thumb, and hand.
Diagnosis is made based on your reported symptoms, physical examination, and investigations.
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis treatment options
Non-surgical treatment options
- Wear a splint to rest and immobilise the thumb and wrist.
- Avoid repetitive movements of the thumb.
- Medications such as painkillers or Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve pain and swelling.
- If you are not responding well to the above conservative treatments, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
Surgical treatment option
- Day surgery may be recommended if symptoms persist without improvement. Surgery is almost always successful, and you will regain normal use of your hand upon recovery.
Make an appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, get in touch with us to find out more about our Orthopaedic Services at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital.
Gleneagles Hospital works with orthopaedic specialists to assist patients through diagnosis and treatment. The caring and multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals are available for consultation and to provide the best care.
