De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a painful condition affecting the thumb and wrist, making simple daily activities difficult. At our Duluth GA office, many patients seek care when wrist pain, swelling, and limited wrist movements begin impacting work, hobbies, or family responsibilities.
What Is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis occurs when the two tendons that move the thumb, the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis, become irritated inside a tight tendon sheath. When inflammation develops, the tendons cannot glide smoothly, creating sharp pain on the thumb side of the wrist.
Why the Thumb Side of the Wrist Hurts
The affected area becomes swollen because the tendon sheath becomes too tight. With every wrist motion or thumb movement, pressure increases, causing pain, tenderness, and difficulty performing a full range of motion.
Most Common Causes of De Quervain’s
Most patients develop this painful condition from repetitive wrist motions, lifting children, gripping tools, sports injuries, or overuse of the muscles in the forearm and hand. Some patients with rheumatoid arthritis also develop symptoms due to underlying inflammation.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
Common symptoms include wrist pain, swelling along the thumb, catching sensations, difficulty gripping, numbness, and discomfort when making a fist. Many patients notice that symptoms become worse with lifting or twisting motions.
How De Quervain’s Affects Daily Activities
De Quervain’s can disrupt daily activities, especially tasks that involve bending the wrist, carrying objects, or repetitive thumb motions. Patients in Duluth frequently report difficulty opening jars, lifting groceries, or typing on a phone or keyboard.
How Doctors Diagnose the Condition
A hand surgeon performs a physical exam, checking the tendons and wrist movements. The Finkelstein test, which stretches the thumb tendons, often reproduces pain and helps confirm De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.
The Role of Wrist Splinting in Early Treatment
Wrist splinting is one of the most effective nonsurgical treatment options. A splint keeps the thumb and wrist stable, reducing tendon irritation and helping reduce swelling in the inflamed tendon sheath.
Other Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Nonsurgical treatment options include rest, ice packs, anti-inflammatory medication, and activity modification. These treatments aim to relieve pain and improve wrist motions while protecting the irritated tendons.
When Symptoms Get Worse Over Time
Some patients experience symptoms that become worse despite rest or other treatments. When swelling increases or pain lasts longer than expected, the condition may no longer provide relief with conservative care and may need more advanced treatment.
Corticosteroid or Anti-inflammatory Injections
For patients with persistent symptoms, an injection into the tendon sheath can significantly reduce swelling and inflammation. Most patients experience noticeable improvement after one or two injections.
When De Quervain’s Surgery Is Recommended
If pain continues and treatments no longer provide relief, De Quervain’s surgery may be recommended. At our Duluth GA office, surgery is considered when everyday life becomes difficult or when the tendons are too restricted to heal on their own.
What Happens During De Quervain’s Surgery
The surgical procedure involves releasing the tight tendon sheath to create more space for the tendons to glide. This hand surgery is performed through a small incision on the thumb side of the wrist, and it takes only a short time to complete.
Recovery After De Quervain’s Surgery
Recovery usually progresses quickly. Most patients return to light use of the hand within a few days and resume full activity after several weeks. Gentle motion helps prevent stiffness and restores normal function.
Life After Treatment and Return to Activities
Once healing begins, patients gradually return to daily activities without the sharp wrist pain that limited them before. With swelling resolved and the tendon sheath released, wrist pain dramatically decreases and function returns.
How This Condition Differs From Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Some patients worry that wrist pain may be carpal tunnel syndrome, but these conditions are different. Carpal tunnel affects the nerves in the palm and fingers, while De Quervain’s affects the tendons on the wrist’s thumb side.
Other Conditions That May Mimic De Quervain’s
Trigger finger, tendinitis, wrist injuries, and joint arthritis can produce similar symptoms. A board certified hand surgeon can accurately diagnose these conditions and recommend the right treatment plan.
Why Choose Dr. Thomas Neustein in Duluth GA
Instead of choosing a generic hand surgeon, patients in Duluth choose Dr. Thomas Neustein for his specialization in hand and wrist injuries, tendon disorders, nerve problems, and upper extremity care. His board certification and focused training ensure that patients receive precise diagnosis, efficient treatment, and a personalized plan tailored to their goals and daily activities.
How Our Team Supports Your Recovery
Our Duluth office combines Dr. Neustein’s surgical expertise with a team committed to helping patients return to everyday life safely and confidently. From initial evaluation to recovery, patients receive clear communication, focused care, and guidance through every step of treatment.
When to Schedule an Appointment
If wrist pain is interfering with daily activities or symptoms are worsening, this is the right time to schedule an evaluation. Whether you need nonsurgical treatment or De Quervain’s surgery, our Duluth office is here to help restore comfort and function.
