De Quervain’s Syndrome (Tenosynovitis)

The main symptom of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is pain in your wrist on the same side as your thumb.

Pain can start suddenly or develop gradually over time. It often radiates up the side of your forearm and down along your thumb, and is usually worse with movements such as gripping, pinching, or twisting your wrist.  

Other symptoms of De Quervain’s syndrome include: 

• tenderness when pressing on the affected area of your wrist 

• swelling at the base of your thumb

• a clicking or snapping sensation in your wrist when you move your thumb 

• numbness in your thumb or wrist 

• stiffness in your thumb 

De Quervain’s syndrome occurs due to inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. The exact cause isn’t clear, but the condition can be triggered by: 

• overuse – if you have a job or hobby where you use your thumb or wrist a lot, or that involves repetitive movements like grasping, lifting, or gripping 

• direct injury to your thumb or wrist 

• certain inflammatory health conditions like arthritis 

• hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy 

You may have a higher risk of developing De Quervain’s tenosynovitis if you are: 

• female

• over 40 years of age

• pregnant or breastfeeding 

At your first Welbeck consultation, you’ll be seen by a consultant orthopaedic surgeon, who will ask you about your symptoms, general health, medical history and any medications you take regularly. They’ll also perform a physical examination of your hand and wrist. 

De Quervain’s syndrome is often diagnosed using a test called the Finkelstein test. This involves bending your thumb across the palm of your hand and bending your fingers over your thumb. You then bend your wrist toward your little finger to see if you feel pain on the thumb side of your wrist.

De Quervain's syndrome can't always be prevented, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the condition, including: 

• avoiding repetitive wrist and thumb movements where possible

• taking regular breaks from activities where you use your wrist and thumb a lot 

• warming up properly before activity 

• using the correct technique and form for sports and other activities to reduce stress on your wrists and thumbs

• using ergonomic devices to minimise strain on your hands and thumbs

• wearing a thumb and wrist support, such as a brace or splint, to help rest and support your tendons

• doing exercises to strengthen your thumbs, wrists and forearms to increase strength and flexibility

• living a healthy lifestyle by maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking

De Quervain's syndrome is usually treatable and not serious, but in some cases, untreated De Quervain's syndrome can lead to complications, including: 

• permanent tendon damage

• long-term pain and reduced range of motion

• difficulty with daily activities that involve lifting, grasping, twisting or pinching

There are several treatment options available for De Quervain’s syndrome, including nonsurgical measures and surgery. 

Your consultant will recommend the most appropriate treatment for you depending on the severity of your condition and other factors such as your age, general health and any treatments you’ve tried previously. 

Non-surgical treatments are normally tried first, and surgery is usually only considered when other methods haven't worked to relieve your symptoms. 

Treatments for De Quervain’s syndrome include: 

• resting your wrist and thumb, and avoiding or limiting activities that cause pain 

• applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth or towel to the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes several times a day 

• over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, paracetamol, or topical gels to reduce inflammation and relieve pain

• using a splint to immobilise your wrist and thumb while it heals 

• steroid injections directly into the tendon tunnel to reduce inflammation 

• physiotherapy and/or occupational therapy 

• surgery to open the tight tunnel, relieve pressure on the tendons and allow them to glide freely

At Welbeck, our orthopaedic surgeons are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialities, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof. 

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.