What is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is a painful condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. It occurs when the tendons around the base of the thumb become irritated or inflamed, making movements such as grasping, pinching, or turning the wrist difficult and painful. This condition is often associated with repetitive hand or wrist movements, such as lifting a baby, gardening, or using a smartphone. De Quervain’s can affect people of all ages but is particularly common in new parents, people with jobs that involve repetitive hand motions, and individuals with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Why should you get De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis checked?
If you experience pain or swelling near the base of your thumb, or if thumb and wrist movements are painful, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life by reducing pain and restoring wrist function.
Left untreated, De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis can cause chronic pain and limit your ability to perform daily tasks. Early intervention with conservative treatments such as rest, splinting, ice application, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections can often effectively manage symptoms. In some cases, physical therapy can help improve tendon mobility and reduce inflammation.
Surgical Treatment for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
When conservative treatments fail, surgery may be necessary to relieve symptoms. The surgical procedure, known as De Quervain’s release, involves making a small incision on the wrist to open the sheath surrounding the inflamed tendons, allowing them to glide more freely. This is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local anaesthesia, and patients can usually return home the same day. Recovery involves light hand exercises and gradually resuming normal activities to restore full function. Surgery offers a high success rate, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved thumb and wrist movement.
Conclusion
Early detection and treatment of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis are crucial for minimising pain and preventing long-term complications. Addressing symptoms early through conservative measures can often avoid the need for surgery. However, when surgery is required, it provides effective and lasting relief, restoring hand and wrist function. By seeking timely medical advice, individuals can regain mobility and return to daily activities without discomfort, preserving their quality of life