DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis

DeQuervain’s tenosynovitis is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. People between the ages of 30 and 50 have a higher risk of developing deQuervain’s tenosynovitis than those in other age groups and the condition is more common in women than in men.  The condition is also very common in new mothers. Any activity that relies on repetitive hand or wrist movement like lifting your baby, working in the garden, playing golf or racket sports can make it worse.

SYMPTOMS:

• Pain along the thumb side of the wrist
• Pain when grasping and / or lifting objects
• Pain while twisting the wrist
• Swelling along the thumb side of the wrist
• Snapping sensation when the thumb is moved
• Inability to move thumb and wrist
• Some people may also experience pain in forearm.

TREATMENT:

• Rest: A splint that supports both the thumb and wrist will usually be required.
• Rehabilitation: Once your symptoms have settled, you will be prescribed specific exercises to regain movement and strength.
• Medication: Anti-inflammatory medication may be prescribed by your doctor to relieve pain and swelling.
• Cortisone injection: occasionally a cortisone injection may be required to aid in recovery.
• Surgical procedure: Surgery may be recommended in severe cases.
• Post Op Rehabilitation: If you require surgery, your hand therapist will be involved in your care from 1-2 weeks post op, until you regain full  use.

For more information about DeQuervain’s tenosynovitis in new mums, see our blog post here