deQuervain's Tendinitis

Traditionally, de Quervain’s Tendinitis was called “Washer Woman’s Syndrome.” This is because the repetitive hand movements used for wringing wet clothes-- thumb pinching, squeezing, and moving the wrist outwards towards the little finger, are the motions that can cause de Quervain’s Tendinitis.

Repetitive thumb motions and wrist deviation, moving the wrist towards the side, can irritate the tendons when they move through the tendon sheath. Activities that require such motions include wringing laundry, gardening, and the awkward hand movements required for lifting and caring for a new infant.

Over use can cause the tendons to swell and accumulate fluid, resulting in a condition called Tendinitis. The lining of the tendon sheath can also become inflamed. This condition is called Tenosynovitis. Tendinitis and Tenosynovitis can occur independently or at the same time.

Tissue swelling associated with metabolic disorders, such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, may also cause de Quervain’s Tendinitis. It appears to have a tendency to develop during pregnancy or menopause, times when fluid may be retained. Doctors also believe that de Quervain’s Tendinitis may be caused by direct trauma to the wrist or by a sudden strain from lifting or unaccustomed exercise. 

De Quervain’s Tendinitis can also cause swelling at the wrist and thumb area. Some individuals develop a fluid-filled cyst in this region. You may hear crackling noises or feel a catch when you move your thumb. Some people have difficulty moving their thumb and wrist. 

Your doctor can diagnose de Quervain’s Tendinitis by examining your wrist and hand. Your doctor will also ask you about your symptoms and activities. The Finkelstein test is a common physical examination used to confirm a suspected case of de Quervain’s Tendinitis. The test is simple to perform. Your doctor will ask you to make a fist with your thumb tucked inside. Next, you will bend your wrist towards the little finger side of your hand. The test is positive if you feel pain at the base of your thumb.

For some people, refraining from the activities that cause discomfort will make the symptoms go away on their own. Some cases of de Quervain’s Tendinitis respond to treatments that relieve pain and provide rest. Your doctor may recommend that you wear a splint to support and rest your joints. Anti-inflammatory medication may help reduce your pain and swelling. Sometimes doctors choose to inject cortisone into the tendon sheath.

Surgery is recommended when symptoms persist and do not improve. The surgery is usually an outpatient procedure. You may be sedated for the surgery, or the area will be numbed with regional or local anesthesia. Your surgeon will make an opening in your wrist and make an incision in the sheath that covers the tendon. Your surgeon may also remove the swollen tissue in the sheath. This creates a larger space for the inflamed and swollen tendons to move in.

Occassionally, an occupational therapist can help you gradually gain strength and movement, while reducing discomfort and swelling.

Recovery from de Quervain’s Tendinitis is very individualized. It depends on the type of treatment used and the extent of surgery. Your doctor will be able to tell you what to expect. Most individuals have very good results and make a full recovery.