De Quervain’s tendinosis, also known as De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. This condition can make everyday tasks like gripping, pinching, or lifting difficult. At Premier Pain Clinic, we offer specialized treatment options to help you manage the pain and regain function in your hand and wrist.
What Causes De Quervain’s Tendinosis?
De Quervain’s tendinosis occurs when the tendons around the base of the thumb become irritated or inflamed. This can happen due to repetitive hand and wrist motions, such as those involved in typing, lifting, or other activities that strain the thumb tendons. The exact cause is often linked to overuse, though it can also result from direct injury or inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Recognizing the Symptoms
The primary symptoms of De Quervain’s tendinosis include:
Pain and Tenderness: Pain at the base of the thumb that may extend into the lower arm, particularly when grasping or making a fist.
Swelling: Swelling near the base of the thumb, which may be accompanied by a fluid-filled cyst.
Difficulty with Thumb Movement: A feeling of catching or snapping when moving the thumb, especially when trying to grip or twist objects.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
At Premier Pain Clinic, our approach to treating De Quervain’s tendinosis begins with an accurate diagnosis. Our specialists will perform a thorough physical examination, often involving the Finkelstein test, where you bend your thumb into your palm and move your wrist to see if it triggers pain.
Once diagnosed, we offer a range of treatment options:
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
Rest and Immobilization: Resting the thumb and wrist, often with a splint or brace, is crucial to reduce inflammation. Immobilization can prevent further irritation of the tendons.
Medication: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce pain and swelling. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended for more severe pain.
Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles in the thumb and wrist can improve mobility and reduce strain. Our experienced physical therapists at Premier Pain Clinic will guide you through a personalized exercise program.
2. Surgical Intervention
If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be considered. The procedure involves releasing the sheath around the inflamed tendons to allow them to glide more easily. Our skilled surgeons at Premier Pain Clinic ensure a safe and effective procedure with a focus on recovery and rehabilitation.
Preventing De Quervain’s Tendinosis
Preventing De Quervain’s tendinosis involves minimizing repetitive stress on the thumb and wrist. Here are some tips:
Ergonomic Adjustments: Modify your workspace to ensure your wrists are in a neutral position while typing or using a mouse.
Take Breaks: Regularly take breaks from activities that strain your thumb and wrist, and perform gentle stretches to keep the tendons flexible.
Use Proper Technique: Whether lifting, gripping, or performing other repetitive tasks, using the correct technique can help reduce strain on your tendons.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re experiencing persistent thumb or wrist pain that interferes with your daily activities, it’s time to seek professional help. At Premier Pain Clinic, our team of specialists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your needs. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that helps you regain function and live pain-free.
Book a Consultation Today
Don’t let De Quervain’s tendinosis keep you from enjoying life. Book a consultation with Premier Pain Clinic today, and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.
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