De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

De Quervain's tenosynovitis is an uncomfortable condition impacting the tendons in your wrist. It arises when the two tendons surrounding the base of your thumb undergo swelling. This swelling triggers inflammation in the sheaths that envelop the tendons, exerting pressure on adjacent nerves and leading to pain.

Underlying causes of De Quervain's Tenosynovitis:

•  Repetitive wrist movements (typing, knitting, carrying baby)
• Rheumatoid arthritis, can contribute to the condition.
• After pregnancy

Presentation:

• Pain at the side of the wrist (at the base of the thumb
• Pain worsened with thumb movement
• May be accompanied by mild swelling, redness or warmth

This condition is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and physical examination of the wrist and hand. In most instances, the diagnosis is straightforward and imaging is not required. 

Treatment aim to alleviate pain and swelling, maintain normal wrist joint function, and prevent the condition's recurrence. The chosen treatment depends on symptom duration and severity.

Options for treatment may include:

• Rest (Avoidance of repetitive thumb and wrist movements, splints)
• Medications to reduce Pain & Swelling
• Injections into the tendon sheath
• Surgery