DeQuervain’s tendinitis is a common condition that affects many adults, particularly women, at some point in their lives. In fact, it affects up to 1-2% of the general population each year. It can cause pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion in the wrist and thumb, which can have a significant impact on quality of life. 

DeQuervain’s tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons that run along the base of the thumb, known as the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus. These tendons oversee moving the thumb away from the palm of the hand and towards the fingers. When these tendons become inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort in the wrist and thumb. 

Symptoms can vary from person to person, but may include: 

• Pain and tenderness along the wrist and thumb 
• Swelling around the base of the thumb 
• Pain that worsens with activities such as gripping, grasping, or twisting objects 

• A “catching” or “snapping” sensation when moving the thumb 

The exact causes of this condition are not fully understood, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including: 

• Repetitive stress: Activities that involve repetitive gripping, grasping, or twisting of the wrist can irritate the tendons and lead to inflammation. 
• Direct injury: A fall or direct blow to the wrist area can damage the tendons and lead to inflammation. 
• Pregnancy and hormonal changes: Women who are pregnant or have recently given birth may be at increased risk of developing DeQuervain’s tendinitis due to hormonal changes that can affect the tendons. 

There are several ways to manage the symptoms of DeQuervain’s tendinitis, which can reduce the symptoms and improve quality of life, including: 

• Rest, splinting, and ice: Resting and splinting the affected wrist and applying ice to the area can help reduce inflammation and pain. 
• Manual therapy, range of movement and strengthening exercises: Mobilization of the wrist joint, alongside strengthening and range-of-motion exercises, can help maintain mobility and improve muscle strength, which can help reduce strain on the affected tendons and alleviate pain in the wrist and thumb joint. 
• Use proper ergonomics: Using proper ergonomics and techniques when performing activities that involve gripping, grasping, or twisting objects can help reduce stress on the wrist tendons and prevent future episodes of tendinitis. 
• Seek medical advice: If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your wrist and thumb, it’s important to seek medical advice. A physiotherapist can help develop a tailored exercise program to improve your symptoms and overall quality of life. 
• Laser Therapy: Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light energy to reduce pain and inflammation.

Additionally, R3 Physiotherapy offers laser therapy in the Wanstead and Ilford locations, which can help individuals with this condition by facilitating the body’s own healing and speeding up recovery. 

To summarise, DeQuervain’s tendinitis is a common condition that affects many adults, particularly women, at some point in their lives. It can cause pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion in the wrist and thumb joint, which can have a significant impact on quality of life. However, by understanding the causes, symptoms, and potential treatments for DeQuervain’s tendinitis, you can take steps to manage your symptoms and improve your overall health and well-being. 

References

Suwannaphisit, S., Suwanno, P., Fongsri, W., & Chuaychoosakoon, C. (2022). Comparison of the effect of ketorolac versus triamcinolone acetonide injections for the treatment of de Quervain’s tenosynovitis: a double-blind randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 23, 831. doi: 10.1186/s12891-022-05784-x.

Satteson, E. and Tannan, S.C., 2022. De Quervain Tenosynovitis