Definition:
De Quervain's tenosynovitis is characterized by the abnormal pain experience on the hand and wrist area. The pain is generally caused by the swelling of the sheath of tendons located on the thumb side of the wrist. This causes the pain and discomfort for every turn of the wrist, clenching the fist and grasping anything.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis of De Quervain's tenosynovitis is done through conducting a Finkelstein test. This is a simple test of bending the thumb across the palm of the hand and also bending the fingers over the thumb.
Treatment:
The primary goal of the treatment of De Quervain's tenosynovitis is to reduce pain and swelling, This may include immobilizing the wrist and the thumb, avoiding repetitive motion, applying cold and hot compress on the affected area as well as use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Symptoms and Signs:
The primary signs and symptoms of De Quervain's tenosynovitis are the swelling of the pain at the base of the thumb. This pain may increase in intensity over time. If the condition goes without treatment, the pain may spread on the farther on the neighboring area of the hand. Symptoms include numbness, pain and swelling of the thumb, development of a fluid-filled cyst, and a squeaking sound when tendons try to move.
Causes:
De Quervain's tenosynovitis is caused by the inflammation of the tendons that connects the base of the thumb, thereby restricting movement and causing pain. This is primary caused by the chronic overuse of the wrist such as in the case of a repetitive motion. Other causes may include direct injury of the tendon and wrist, scar tissues that may restrict movement, as well as inflammatory arthritis.
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