De Quervains Syndrome
De Quervains Syndrome is a painful condition that is caused by the inflammation of the tendons that run from the forearm to the base of the thumb. Inflamed tendons rub again the tendon sheath, causing pain and possibly tenderness near the thumb side of the wrist. Pain in this area is most noticeable with specific wrist and thumb movements. Making a fist, grabbing an object or turning your wrist are actions that may all cause an elevated level of pain to the affected area.
This condition is known by various names (De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, De Quervain’s Tendinosis, Gamer’s Thumb, etc.).
De Quervains Syndrome Symptoms
Pain or tenderness caused by De Quervains Syndrome may develop gradually or occur suddenly. A person with De Quervains Syndrome may also exhibit some of the following symptoms:
- Swelling At The Base Of The Thumb
- Swelling On The Side Of The Wrist
- Numbness On the Back Of the Thumb
What Causes De Quervains Syndrome?
De Quervains Syndrome may be caused by overuse of the wrist. Repetitive movements can have a negative effect on tendons anywhere in the body. Repetitive twisting, gripping and lifting could cause this disorder.
De Quervains Syndrome might also be caused by an injury. While anybody could potentially develop this condition, people who suffer from arthritis are also more likely to develop this condition. Women are much more likely to develop this condition than men.
Conservative Treatment For De Quervains Syndrome
Treatment is focused on decreasing inflammation and pain in the area. This condition responds well to conservative treatments and may take 2 to 4 months. Conservative treatments methods for De Quervains Syndrome can include a combination of:
- Age
- Activity Modification
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications
- Cortisone Injections
- Ice (Cold Packs)
- Immobilization / Splint
- Physical Therapy
Early treatment is important because this condition could worsen over time is left untreated. It’s in a patients best interest to see a hand doctor as soon as possible to purse conservative treatment options.
Surgery for De Quervains Syndrome is reserved for severe cases of the disorder of for patients who have not been able to gain relief using conservative treatment methods.