Hand & Wrist Specialty
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Specialist in Columbia, SC
What is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, also called De Quervain’s syndrome, is a condition that affects the tendons on the wrist near the thumb. This is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the tendons that control movement of your thumb. It’s important to understand the causes, preventions, and treatment for this condition. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis occurs when the tendons that run along the side of the wrist below your thumb become inflamed from overuse or injury.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Symptoms
When a person has De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, they may experience:
- Pain and swelling near the base of the thumb
- Pain that radiates from the wrist up the forearm
- Pain that worsens with thumb and wrist movement
- Weakened grip
- Loss of motion in the thumb and wrist or a “catching” feeling
If you have been experiencing symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis in the hand and you would like one of our hand and wrist physicians to help you, connect with us today!
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Diagnosis and Treatment
To diagnose De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, your doctor will perform an exam including a “Finkelstein Test ”, having you bend your thumb across your palm to check for range of motion and pain. Diagnostic imaging like XRays are not typically needed to diagnose De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis. If you or your doctor suspect De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is the reason for painful interruptions to your daily life, treatment may include:
- Rest and Immobilization: Resting and immobilizing your symptomatic wrist and thumb with a splint or brace can provide symptomatic relief and allow the swelling in your tendons to recede.
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may help. Your doctor may prescribe other medications if over the counter meds do not provide relief.
- Lifestyle Changes: Make changes to your work space. Make sure your keyboards, mouse, and other electronics are ergonomic and that you’re sitting comfortably with your wrists “floating”, to prevent reinjury.
- Physical Therapy: Your provider may recommend physical therapy to strengthen your inflamed tendons, reduce pain, and improve mobility.
- Corticosteroid Injections: Your provider may recommend corticosteroid injections into the inflamed tendon to improve symptoms and range of motion.
- Surgery: For severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to release the constricted tendons.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Treatment in South Carolina
The doctors and physical therapists at Midlands Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery will make sure you get the best care possible if you’re struggling with De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis. If you have a condition or injury that affects your wrist and thumb, please call 803-256-4107 to make an appointment.