Tendinitis of thumb (Dequervain’s tenosynovitis)

What is the problem?

Two of the main tendons to the thumb pass through a tunnel located on the thumb side of the wrist.

These tendons are covered by a slippery, thin, soft-tissue layer called synovium.

This layer allows the tendons to slide easily through a fibrous tunnel called a tendon sheath.

Any swelling of the tendons and/or thickening of the sheath, results in increased friction and pain with certain thumb and wrist movements.

What causes the problem?

• Most commonly associated with repetitive use.
• Known as writers cramp.
• Commonly seen in young mothers.
• Also common in middle aged woman.

What are the signs and symptoms?

• Pain may be felt over the thumb side of the wrist or can travel up the forearm.
• The pain is worse when forcefully grasping objects or twisting the wrist.
• Swelling may be seen over the thumb side of the wrist.
• A "Catching" or "Snapping" sensation may be felt when moving the thumb.
• Pain and swelling may make it difficult to move the thumb and wrist.

How do I manage this problem?

• Anti-inflammatory medication (Ibuprofen) may help reduce the swelling and relieve pain.
• Rest. Simple thumb splints may be used to rest the thumb and wrist.
• Avoiding activities that cause pain and swelling may ease the symptoms on their own.

What other treatments are available?

• Corticosteroid injection into the tendon sheath may help reduce the swelling and pain