De Quervain’s Tendinosis
De Quervain’s Tendinosis Overview
De Quervain’s tendinosis is inflammation of the wrist tendons on the side closest to the thumb. De Quervain’s symptoms make it difficult to use the wrist when performing day-to-day activities like writing and grabbing and gripping objects. A Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) hand specialist prescribes a customized treatment plan to treat inflammation and reduce symptoms.
Symptoms & Causes
De Quervain’s tendinosis symptoms include:
- A catch or snap sensation when the thumb moves
- Pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
The cause of De Quervain’s tendinosis is not known. Risk factors include:
- Occupations that involve constant hand and wrist use
- Pregnancy
- Rheumatoid disease
Common Treatments:
Nonsurgical treatment options treat most De Quervain’s tendinosis cases. After a thorough evaluation, a CONA hand specialist may recommend:
- A custom made splint
- A corticosteroid injection
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
- Slowing down or stopping symptom-producing activities
Surgery may be recommended when symptoms do not improve after nonsurgical treatment. A CONA hand specialist carefully excises the tendon sheath to decompress the tendons. Inflammation decreases and symptoms dramatically improve after surgery.