Hand Surgery for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

Causes and Symptoms

The precise cause of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is unknown, however it is generally associated with chronic repetitive motion.

Certain activities, such as tennis or racquetball or yard work, may exacerbate the condition. Lifting a baby or young child may also aggravate the pain. Injury and rheumatoid arthritis have been linked to its occurrence.

The symptoms can appear gradually or suddenlySymptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis include:

• Pain or tenderness around base of the thumb or the thumb side of the wrist
• Inflammation around the base of the thumb or the thumb side of the wrist
• Limited ability or significant pain when moving the thumb or wrist or when trying grasp objects

Diagnosis and Treatment

Our surgeon can diagnose De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis with a physical examination. Our surgeon will apply pressure to the thumb and wrist to assess the degree of sensitivity and pain.

In addition, the surgeon will further ascertain the location of the pain using the Finkelstein test, where you will be asked to move your thumb and fingers in a specific manner.

• Medications: Pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications. Anti-inflammatory injections may be recommended to reduce swelling.
• Physical therapy: Reducing repetitive tasks that aggravate the discomfort will be necessary. Wearing a splint to restrict movement is recommended.
• Hand Surgery: If you have a severe case of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, surgery to relieve pressure on the tendons may be the best course of action.

If left untreated, the pain can begin to radiate to the forearm, intensifying the pain and further interfering with range of motion and the ability to move the thumb.