Meredith Pfohl 
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is the inflammation and irritation of the tendon sheath (the clingwrap like covering) surrounding two of our thumb tendons (the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus). Typically De Quervain’s occurs when there are repetitive movements of the wrist and thumb, such as caring for a new baby, repetitive manual tasks, or overuse of the thumb whilst using a phone.
De Quervain’s can be very painful and limiting, with pain experienced during use of the hand and thumb, making it quite debilitating!
Treatment of De Quervain’s needs to address several factors. Firstly, the irritating activity needs to be modified or reduced to allow time for the inflammation and irritation to resolve. Splinting or bracing is often used to eliminate the repetitive friction that perpetuates the irritation and pain. Exercises for the wrist and thumb are also used to ensure good wrist and hand stability for function. Local anti-inflammatory modalities may also be used to help speed up the healing time.
If you are experiencing wrist and thumb pain then see one of our experienced physiotherapists today.
Coccydynia (Coccyx Pain)
Prev post
