De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is when the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist become inflamed. The pain is located at the base of the thumb. The area is typically sore to touch. Swelling may or may not be present. This problem is usually caused by chronic overuse of the wrist.

 

Common aggravating activities include playing racket sports, playing golf, knitting, playing a musical instrument, gardening, and lifting children. The following strategies might prove helpful in managing/treating this problem:

• Rest the affected thumb/wrist region. Avoid the aggravating/repetitive activities as much as possible.
• Ice the affected area
• Immobilize the wrist area with a splint (keeping the thumb and wrist straight)
• Attempt a trial of conservative treatment (eg. ultrasound, acupuncture, myofascial release therapy, various exercises). These treatments are most commonly performed by a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, or a chiropractor.

If the above strategies do not yield the desired results, follow up with your family physician. Your family physician may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon, physiatrist, rheumatologist, or sports medicine physician. Various medical interventions may be considered (eg. cortisone injection, anti-inflammatory medication, surgery).