DeQuervaine's Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s Disease is a painful condition that affects the tendons located on the thumb side of your wrist. These tendons run in a tunnel (tendon sheath). Thickening of the ligamentous structure over this tunnel can cause pain when the thumb is moved or used.
In most patients it occurs for no apparent reason. Occasionally it can occur following minor injury, from overusing your thumb or wrist or in young mothers, from picking up their baby. It is more common in women than men.
It can usually be diagnosed on examination. Occasionally, x-ray or ultrasound may be required to exclude other conditions, which may mimic the symptoms of De Quervain’s Disease.
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Physiotherapy
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Steroid Injection
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Surgery- a day case under a local anaesthetic. The operation involves dividing part of the roof of the tendon sheath in which the tendons run. Your hand may be placed in a bulky dressing or plaster for 10-14 days. You may be referred to see a Physiotherapist. Avoid heavy manual work for 4-6 weeks after the surgery.