De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

What it is

Overview

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a painful condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. It happens when the sheath (covering) around the two tendons that control thumb movement becomes inflamed and thickened. This makes it hard for the tendons to glide smoothly, causing friction and discomfort during everyday activities.

Common signs and symptoms include:

Pain along the thumb side of the wrist, often worsening with movement.
Swelling near the base of the thumb.
Difficulty gripping or pinching objects, like turning a key or holding a phone.
A “catching” or snapping feeling when moving the thumb.
Pain that may spread up the forearm.

When to see specialist

Many people notice the pain gradually, but it can also start suddenly. A simple test called the Eichhoff test—tucking your thumb into your palm and bending your wrist toward your little finger—often reproduces the pain.

Causes & risk factor

The exact cause isn’t always clear, but the main contributing factor is repetitive overuse of the wrist and thumb, such as from texting, gaming, lifting children, gardening, or certain jobs/hobbies involving gripping and twisting motions. It is more common in labourers.

COMMON RISK FACTOR

Direct injury or trauma to the wrist.
Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or postpartum
Certain health issues, such as diabetes.
Smoking, which can affect tendon health.

While some studies suggest a possible genetic link, it’s not a primary cause for most people.

Treatment Options

Most cases improve without surgery. Treatment starts with conservative (non-surgical) approaches:

non-surgical

First-line Treatment Option

Rest and activity modification to avoid aggravating motions.
Wearing a thumb spica splint or brace to immobilize the thumb and wrist.
Anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen
Corticosteroid injections into the tendon sheath to reduce inflammation.

Success rate

These non-surgical treatments are successful in 60-80% of patients, often providing relief within weeks to months.

surgical

If required, a simple operation can be performed

Simple operation can be performed to open the tendon sheath (covering.) This involves making a small incision on the side of the wrist, allowing the tendons to move freely.