DeQuervain’s Tendonitis Specialist

What is deQuervain’s tendonitis?

DeQuervain’s (deck-wer-VAHNs) tenosynovitis involves tendinitis on the thumb side of the wrist. The site becomes tender and painful with activities such as turning the wrist, making a fist, and holding objects. This condition is also known as radial styloid tenosynovitis or cell-phone thumb. It can last for weeks or months.

What causes deQuervain’s tenosynovitis?

This condition can be caused by repetitive motion, direct injury to the wrist or tendon at the base of the thumb, scar tissue that restricts tendon movement, and inflammatory arthritis.

What are the symptoms?

 Key symptoms include tenderness and pain with such activities as turning the wrist, making a fist, and holding objects.

How is deQuervain’s disease diagnosed?

This condition is most easily diagnosed by performing a special maneuver that mimics the pain. Our board-certified doctor will do a thorough physical examination and may use imagining to rule out arthritis, fracture, and other conditions.

What are the best treatments for deQuervain’s tenosynovitis?

Rest, heat or ice, splinting, and anti-inflammatory medicines can help in mild cases. Cortisone injections and physical therapy may work if conservative measures fail to relieve symptoms. For extreme cases, tendon release surgery can reduce pressure on the affected tendon.  

If you are experiencing pain or restricted movement in your hands or wrist, call Orthopedic Specialists or schedule a consultation online today. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained doctors are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of all hand conditions.