De quervain’s syndrome is a common problem in many people. In its initial stage, de quervain’s can be less painful but worsens with time. Most people underestimate de Quervain’s syndrome as a small problem, but it’s an intense pain that can resist all your daily activities. This post will provide comprehensive information about “What is de quervain’s syndrome,” its causes, and its symptoms.
Moreover, this post will also discuss common preventive strategies and treatments for De Quervain’s syndrome.
What is De Quervain’s Syndrome?
De quervain’s syndrome, medically known as de quervain’s tenosynovitis, is where the tendon sheath beneath the skin gets irritated or compressed. Irritated tendon results in severe pain and inflammation near the base of the thumb. Swiss surgeon Fritz De Quervain first described this condition in 1895. Mainly, de quervain’s syndrome affects the dorsal compartment of the wrist.
What are the Symptoms of De Quervain’s?
The most common symptoms of De Quervain’s syndrome include:
- Pain and tenderness on the side of the wrist and thumb
- Swelling near the base of the thumb
- Difficulty gripping or pinching objects
- A “sticking” or “catching” sensation in the thumb or wrist when moving
- A popping or snapping sound when moving the thumb or wrist
- Weakness in the affected hand or wrist
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb or fingers
What Causes De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
People with thumb pain usually need clarification on “What causes de quervain’s tenosynovitis.” This helps them to take an effective treatment based on the thumb pain’s cause. Here are the most common causes of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis:
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Aging:
A population above the age of 40 has a high chance of acquiring de quervain’s tenosynovitis. With aging, the body starts losing many important minerals, such as calcium, manganese, and magnesium, which can result in tendon pain in many body parts.
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Overuse of wrist and thumb:
Performing tasks that need continuous wrist and thumb movements can be a primary cause of thumb pain. These activities include typing on computers and writing for a long period.
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Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
De Quervain’s syndrome can develop due to fluid retention and hormonal changes during pregnancy. Moreover, it is also a common problem during the post-pregnancy phase due to breastfeeding.
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Thumb Injury:
Many people also develop de quervain’s syndrome due to direct injury while performing physical exercises and weightlifting. Furthermore, athletes and tennis players are also prone to thumb pain due to the continuous involvement of the wrist and thumb in sports.
There are many diseases, too, such as rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause thumb pain. Noticeably, it’s a very rare case.
What are Treatments for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
Many surgical and non-surgical treatments for de quervain’s tenosynovitis are available on the market. Some people prefer surgical treatments due to their permanent relief, while others prefer non-surgical treatments as they are budget-friendly as well as effective.
Non-Surgical Treatments:
The majority of people often prefer non-surgical treatments for de quervain’s tenosynovitis. The most effective non-surgical treatments and home remedies are as follows:
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Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs:
Medications and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen help to reduce the severe thumb pain and inflammation beneath the skin.
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Rest:
Avoiding activities that cause pain or strain on the affected hand or wrist can help reduce inflammation and allow the tendons to heal.
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Immobilization:
Wearing a splint or brace that immobilizes the thumb and wrist can help reduce strain on the tendons and promote healing.
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Corticosteroid injections:
Injecting a corticosteroid medication into the affected area can help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
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Ice and Heat Therapy:
Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes and heating it for another 20 minutes can help reduce pain and swelling.
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Ultrasound Therapy:
Many non-invasive devices equipped with ultrasound-based technology are the best non-surgical treatment for de quervain’s syndrome. This innovative device emits far-infrared and ultrasonic radiations beneath the skin to reduce pain and inflammation. After this, taping for de quervain’s tenosynovitis is used to wrap a wrist.
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Physical therapy:
Exercises that stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons in the affected hand and wrist can help reduce pain and improve function.
Surgical Treatments:
If pain at the base of the thumb is very severe, an individual can consider surgical treatments on their doctor’s advice. The most common surgical treatment for de quervain’s syndrome is “Release.” In this treatment, a surgeon fills the narrow space of the tendon near the dorsal compartment to reduce pain and inflammation. After this treatment, prescribed medications and a splint are recommended for one week for effective results.
What are Preventive Strategies to Resist De Quervain’s Syndrome?
Several preventive strategies can help reduce the risk of developing De Quervain’s Syndrome:
- Maintaining good posture when sitting or standing
- When using Proper techniques while typing or playing sports.
- Taking frequent breaks during repetitive activities
- Regularly stretching and strengthening the muscles and tendons in the hand and wrist
- Avoid gripping objects too tightly
- Eating a balanced diet, performing regular exercise, and avoiding smoking
Conclusion:
De Quervain’s syndrome is a common problem, but it can result in severe thumb pain. On experiencing any of the symptoms of de quervain’s syndrome, firstly, consider these above-mentioned non-surgical treatments. If a condition is still the same upon using non-surgical treatments, consider surgical treatments on your doctor’s recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q-1. What is the best non-surgical de quervain’s syndrome treatment?
Ans: Ultrasound therapy is the most effective non-surgical solution for de quervain’s syndrome. During this therapy, a non-invasive emits far-infrared and ultrasonic radiations beneath the skin to reduce pain and inflammation.
Q-2. How should I cure my de quervain’s syndrome?
Ans: Many non-surgical and surgical treatments assure effective reduction in thumb pain. Non-surgical treatments such as ultrasound therapy, ice, and heat therapy, and NSAIDs are the best options. In case of intense pain, consider surgical treatments such as “release.”
Q-3. Which is the best de quervain’s tenosynovitis injection?
Ans: Needle injection of corticosteroids into the affected area is the most effective way to reduce thumb pain and swelling.
Q-4. How to wrap the wrist for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis?
Ans: Rub ice on the affected area for 20 minutes and then heat it properly for another 20 minutes. After this, use a splint to wrap an affected wrist.
