Musculoskeletal

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

De Quervain's tenosynovitis is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It occurs when the two tendons associated with thumb movement become irritated or inflamed within the narrow tunnel they pass through. This condition is common in new mothers and people whose activities involve repetitive hand and wrist motions.

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Symptoms

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Causes

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Treatments

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Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for De Quervain's Tenosynovitis. This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Pain and swelling near the base of the thumb
  • Difficulty pinching or grasping objects
  • Sticking or stop-and-go sensation when moving the thumb
  • Pain worsening when turning the wrist, grasping, or making a fist
  • Positive Finkelstein test

Causes

  • Repetitive hand or wrist motion
  • Direct injury to the wrist or tendon
  • Inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis
  • Hormonal changes during pregnancy

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination (Finkelstein test)
  • Ultrasound
  • MRI

Treatment

  • Wrist and thumb splint (immobilization)
  • NSAIDs
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Physical therapy
  • Surgery (release of tendon sheath)

Risk Factors

  • Female sex
  • Age 30–50
  • Pregnancy and postpartum period
  • New parents (lifting baby)
  • Repetitive hand use
  • Rheumatoid arthritis

Prevention

  • Ergonomic adjustments
  • Avoid repetitive pinching motions
  • Supportive splints during high-demand activities

Prevalence

Affects approximately 0.5% of men and 1.3% of women annually.