De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Treatment

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is an inflammation of the tendons and muscles of the thumb that extend to the wrist. More specifically they are the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis tendon sheaths. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is a condition caused by movements that require repetitive thumb use, such as using a Blackberry. The swollen tendons and their coverings rub against the narrow tunnel through which they pass causing inflammation and swelling. Soon after you begin to develop pain at the base of your thumb and into your forearm.

Causes of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

• Repetitive use of the tendon sheaths of the thumb
• At times the cause may be unknown
• Overuse conditions such as gardening, raquet sports and various workplace tasks
• Direct trauma or blow to the area of the wrist and thumb
• While De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis can affect anyone, woman outnumber men 8 to one when developing this condition

Signs and symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

• De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis may occur gradual or suddenly
• Thumb movements may be difficult and painful especially when pinching or gripping objects
• Pain along the back of the thumb directly over the two tendons is a common symptom
• Some may notice swelling and pain at the side of the wrist at base of the thumb
• Pain may increase with use and some may notice pain when pressure is applied to the thumb area

Treatment of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

• Initially treatment would focus on reducing inflammation pain and swelling of the tendon sheaths
• Reducing activities that increase use of the inflamed tendons
• A splint or support to reduce activities to decrease symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis