DeQuervain Tenosynovitis
Why Does the Base of My Thumb and Wrist Hurt?
Pain along the thumb side of the wrist, especially with gripping or twisting motions, is often De Quervain's tendinopathy — inflammation of the tendons that move the thumb, where they pass through a narrow tunnel on the wrist. It's common in new parents (from repetitive lifting) and anyone doing repetitive thumb or wrist motion.
Causes and Symptoms
Repetitive gripping, lifting, or twisting motions irritate the tendons and their surrounding sheath. It is often seen in mothers of infants and toddlers. Symptoms include pain and swelling at the base of the thumb, pain with grasping or twisting the wrist, and sometimes a noticeable thickening over the tendon.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosis is made through exam, including a specific test that reproduces the pain. Treatment usually starts with splinting, activity modification, and a corticosteroid injection, which resolves symptoms for the majority of patients. Surgery — releasing the tight tendon sheath — is reserved for cases that don't respond to nonsurgical care.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is De Quervain's the same as arthritis?
No — it's a tendon condition, not a joint condition, though both can cause pain in a similar area and sometimes coexist.
How effective are injections for De Quervain's?
Very — a corticosteroid injection resolves symptoms in the majority of patients, often without needing further treatment.
What is surgery for De Quervain's like?
It is a minor procedure performed under local anesthesia and taking less than 10 minutes. You can use your hand right away after surgery, but it may be sore for 2-4 weeks.