What is De Quervain's Tenosynovitis?

What Causes De Quervain's Tenosynovitis?

Repetitive gripping and twisting with the thumb thickens the tendon sheath, so the tendons rub inside a narrow tunnel. It is common in new parents lifting a baby, heavy phone users, people doing crafts or gardening, and women during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist
• Pain worsening when gripping, opening jars or lifting a baby
• Mild swelling in the area
• Sharp pain when the thumb is tucked into the palm and the wrist is bent toward the little finger (Finkelstein test)

Frequently Asked Questions

How is De Quervain's treated?

A thumb spica splint, reducing straining movements, ice and physiotherapy are the first steps. Persistent cases may receive an injection into the tendon sheath. For pain lasting months, a small surgical procedure widens the tunnel.