De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

De Quervain's tenosynovitis is a painful condition that affects the

tendons

on the thumb side of your wrist.
Although the exact cause of de Quervain's tenosynovitis isn't known, any activity that relies on repetitive hand or wrist movement — such as working in the garden, playing golf or racket sports, or lifting your baby — can make it worse.
Symptoms

Pain at the base of thumb

  • Occurs or worsens when holding or gripping objects, Occurs or worsens by extending thumb

  • Occurs or worsens in finkelstein test

common

Joint is sore to touch

  • Base of thumb hurts when touched

common

Enlarged joint

  • At the base of thumb

Risk factors

Overuse of thumb

Treatment
Treatment for de Quervain's tenosynovitis is aimed at reducing inflammation, preserving movement in the thumb and preventing recurrence. Initial treatment of de Quervain's tenosynovitis may include: 1-Immobilizing your thumb and wrist, keeping them straight with a splint or brace to help rest your tendons. 2-Avoiding repetitive thumb movements as much as possible. 3-Avoiding pinching with your thumb when moving your wrist from side to side. 4-Applying ice to the affected area. To reduce pain and swelling, your doctor may recommend using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Your doctor may also recommend injections of corticosteroid medications into the tendon sheath to reduce swelling. For more serious conditions, your doctor may recommend outpatient surgery.
Recommended specialist

If you have De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, then a visit to an orthopedic surgeon is recommended.

Contact an

Orthopedic surgeon

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