DeQuervain's tendinitis is a painful condition caused by inflamed tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. These tendons move the thumb sideways away from the palm (fig. 1). DeQuervain's can lead to wrist and forearm pain on the side of the thumb, especially with certain positions and movements of the wrist. DeQuervain's tendinitis may occur after unaccustomed activity involving repetitive lifting or side to side motion of the wrist. It may also develop for no apparent reason. The problem results from the irritation of two tendons where they run through a tight tunnel (fig.1) from the forearm to the thumb.

What can you do?
1- Avoid  painful wrist positions and activities.
2- Ice for five to fifteen minutes at a a time on     the tender area
3- Use over the counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications         (NSAID) like aspirin, ibuprofen, naprosyn, or ketoprofen.
4- Wear a splint or brace designed to support the wrist and thumb.

What can our doctors do?
1- Confirm the diagnosis.
2- Prescribe stronger NSAID medication.
3- Inject the affected area with cortisone see fig. 2.
4- Prescribe a course of hand therapy and/or a custom splint.
4- Perform surgery if conservative measures fail, see fig 3.

A cortisone shot helps most people, however this is usually a temporary measure. One or two shots may provide permanent relief for some patients. Surgery helps over 80% of people with this problem.

Fig. 2

Fig. 3

DeQUERVAIN’S TENDINITIS