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De Quervain syndrome, also known as De Quervain tenosynovitis, is a painful condition that affects the tendons that control the movement of the thumb. It is caused by inflammation of the tendons as they pass through a narrow tunnel on the thumb side of the wrist.
Causes of De Quervain’s syndrome
De Quervain syndrome is more common in women and individuals over the age of 40. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including; repetitive hand motions, such as gripping, grasping, or twisting, pregnancy or breastfeeding, due to hormonal changes and increased use of the wrist and hand, and certain medical conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes.
Symptoms of De Quervain’s syndrome
The symptoms of De Quervain syndrome may include:
- Pain or tenderness at the base of the thumb, particularly when gripping or grasping objects
- Swelling or a bump on the side of the wrist
- A “catching” or “snapping” sensation when moving the thumb
- Difficulty moving the thumb or wrist
- Weakness in the thumb or wrist
Treating De Quervain’s syndrome
Treatment for De Quervain syndrome may include:
- Resting the affected hand and avoiding activities that aggravate the condition
- Applying heat or ice to the affected area
- Taking over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Wearing a splint or brace to immobilize the thumb and wrist
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and swelling
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the trapped tendons and restore thumb and wrist function. It is important to remember however, that many conditions can cause hand pain including De Quervain’s syndrome so, a correct diagnosis in consultation with Dr Singh is important in order to determine the best treatment plan for you.
