De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a painful condition that affects the tendons along the thumb side of your wrist. It specifically involves the tendons that help move your thumb, which are wrapped in a sheath that allows for smooth movement. When these tendons become inflamed, the sheath surrounding them thickens, causing pain and limiting thumb movement. This condition is sometimes referred to as “texting thumb” or “gamer’s thumb” because repetitive thumb movements, such as those used on smartphones, can support its development. This condition affects people of all ages, but is most common in women between the ages of 30 and 50. Our hand and upper extremity specialists at OrthoGeorgia provide comprehensive care for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis and other hand and upper extremity conditions to help restore function and improve quality of life.
What are the Symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
The specific cause of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is unclear. However, it is generally linked to repetitive hand or wrist movements, direct injuries, and inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Activities that involve frequent gripping or lifting with the thumb, such as playing certain sports, lifting a baby, or gardening, may increase someone’s risk. People with De Quervain’s tenosynovitis usually experience:
Pain near the base of the thumb: This pain may be sharp or dull and is usually made worse with thumb or wrist movements.
Swelling at the base of the thumb: This swelling may appear as a visible bump and can cause tenderness in the area.
Difficulty moving the thumb or wrist: Tasks that involve gripping, twisting, or punching may feel challenging or painful.
A “snapping” or “sticking” sensation in the thumb: Some people feel that their thumb movement is restricted or “catches” due to the inflammation of the tendon sheath.
If you experience these symptoms, especially if they interfere with daily activities, it is important to schedule some time to speak to an orthopaedic specialist. Early treatment can help prevent the condition and your symptoms from getting worse and continuing to affect your quality of life.
How is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing De Quervain’s tenosynovitis usually involves a physical examination by a doctor who specializes in hand and upper extremity conditions. During the examination, the doctor may ask you to perform specific movements to assess the extent of pain and swelling. One test that is commonly used is called the Finkelstein test. For this test, the patient makes a fist with the thumb tucked inside the fingers and then bends the wrist toward the little finger. If this motion causes pain along the thumb and wrist, it may indicate De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.
In most cases, additional imaging is not needed for diagnosis. However, if the diagnosis is unclear or other conditions are suspected, your doctor may recommend imaging studies like X-ray or ultrasound. Digital X-rays are available on-site at all of our OrthoGeorgia clinic locations in Central GA.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Treatment in Central GA
At OrthoGeorgia, we understand that De Quervain’s tenosynovitis can negatively affect your quality of life. Our experienced orthopedic specialists provide extensive care for hand and upper extremity conditions, including nonsurgical and surgical treatments for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. Our specialists work closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan aimed at restoring function, minimizing pain, and improving mobility.
Nonsurgical Treatment for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
Most cases of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis can be effectively managed with nonsurgical treatments, especially when the condition is diagnosed early. Common nonsurgical treatment options include:
Activity Adjustments: Reducing or avoiding activities that trigger pain and inflammation, such as repetitive thumb movements, can help minimize symptoms. Your doctor may recommend ergonomic adjustments to prevent further strain.
Splinting: Wearing a splint or brace can keep your thumb and wrist immobilized, allowing the inflamed tendons to rest and heal. Many patients wear a splint for several weeks, particularly during activities that aggravate the condition.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can teach you gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and function. Physical therapy may also include ultrasound therapy along with the application of heat and ice to help with healing.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the thumb and hand. These medications may be used alone or alongside other treatments.
Steroid Injections: A corticosteroid injection into the tendon sheath can be effective in minimizing inflammation and alleviating pain. Many patients experience significant relief from symptoms after one or two injections.
Surgery for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
If nonsurgical treatments are not effective or if symptoms are severe and persistent, surgery for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis may be recommended. The goal of surgical treatment is to release the constricted tendon sheath to allow the tendons to move freely. This procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis, which means you can return home the same day. During surgery, the surgeon makes a small incision along the thumb side of the wrist. Then, they carefully release the swollen tendon sheath, which reduces tension and relieves pain. The surgery is typically quick, with recovery time varying depending on the individual. After surgery, you may need to wear a splint temporarily and participate in physical therapy to restore full movement and strength. No matter what your treatment plan entails, our compassionate team at OrthoGeorgia will ensure that you feel confident in your care and supported in your recovery every step of the way.
Other Hand and Upper Extremity Conditions We Treat at OrthoGeorgia
OrthoGeorgia offers treatment for a wide range of hand and upper extremity conditions, including De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. We strive to provide comprehensive hand care in Central GA as one of the first subspecialty hand surgery practices in the southeastern US. Our team of hand surgeons specializes in diagnosing and treating the following conditions and injuries:
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