De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

Find out more about De Quervain’s tenosynovitis and how Torrance Pain Institute can help you manage your pain, improve your quality of life, and get back to doing the things you enjoy.

Have you ever experienced pain in your thumb, so much so that you can’t move it? It may be a classic case of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis. 

What is De Quervain’s tenosynovitis?

This syndrome may sound foreign to most people, but it’s one worth knowing, particularly for individuals who put their wrists in constant strain. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis affects the tendons of the hand, especially the thumb side of the wrist. The condition is an excruciating swelling or inflammation of the tendons. As the disease progresses, it becomes even more challenging to do daily tasks because of the pain, and it becomes necessary to seek treatment or pain relief.

What causes De Quervain’s tenosynovitis?

The most definite causes of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis may still be unknown, but many common reasons could trigger the condition. These include repetitive hand or wrist movements, such as in sports, gardening, and other similar activities. Physical injury to the area, particularly the thumb, such as the impact of the blow, could also cause the issue. Workplace activities such as typing and mouse movement can also be a contributing factor to development. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis can also be a symptom itself of a more severe condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

What are the symptoms of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis?

Pain and tenderness are the primary symptoms of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. The pain is localized near the base of the thumb and is accompanied by swelling or inflammation. This pain could appear overnight, or can progressively increase over time. There will be difficulty in moving the thumb and the wrist, particularly when trying to grasp items. There might also be a “sticking” sensation, maybe even snapping or popping sensation in the thumb, wherein it becomes difficult to gain full movement of the thumb.

What is the treatment for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis?

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis injection is considered as one of the most effective methods to alleviate the symptoms of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. It’s the application of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug to the area. This is a similar procedure but injected in a different area. Discuss your treatment options for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis with a professional and visit the Torrance Pain Institute today.