It is important to note that the thumb and wrist are utilized in various actions throughout the day. Holding, gripping, turning and other daily actions requires the thumb and wrist. The joints are held together by sturdy ligaments and tendons that are attached to the muscles that contract and relax to allow movement. De Quervain’s syndrome is an injury involving the thumb and wrist that can be sore and even debilitating in severe cases.
A close look on De Quervain’s syndrome
De Quervain’s syndrome involves inflammation of the sheath of the two tendons of the thumb. Take note that this inflammation will lead to the compression of the tendons, thus reducing their capability to slide through as needed for movement.
This condition is not linked with any disease or life-threatening condition. The condition would surely require medical care so that it will improve. De Quervain’s syndrome is quite common among women than men. The condition is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow since it is due to overuse.
Causes of De Quervain’s syndrome
This is an overuse injury that is similar to other tendon injuries. Constant pinching, gripping, wringing or squeezing movements can lead to this condition.
An injury to the thumb or wrist can lead to the development of scar tissue in the area and as the scar tissue develops, the tendons are impinged. Arthritic conditions can also lead to the development of tenosynovitis on the thumb which involves joint inflammation that will worsen the condition.
Signs and symptoms
Pain in the thumb and side of wrist above the radius, particularly during when used is quite common. Swelling and tenderness can also be present. Take note that the pain can progress up to the forearm as the injury worsens.
There is also progressive loss of function in the thumb due to the increasing pain. As for the range of motion, the thumb will start to diminish. Creaking or crepitus can also occur in the affected area.
Treatment
The treatment of De Quervain’s syndrome involves rest, application of an ice pack and administration of NSAIDs. These can provide relief and can help reverse the condition, particularly if it is caught early. Splinting by using a thumb-spica splint might be needed to minimize movement of the wrist and lower thumb joints.
In case these interventions are not effective, a cortisone shot is administered to the area. Physical therapy can also be used to limit movement or change the method of the daily actions that caused the inflammation.
The last step in case all interventions fail is surgery. The surgery involves releasing the tendons to provide enough space for them to move. After surgery, physical therapy is required to retrain the movements that triggered the injury.
Prevention
Preventing overuse injuries requires breaking up sessions of physical activity into shorter periods with frequent breaks to allow the area to rest and avoid overuse.
- Always perform proper warm-up before any activity involving lifting, holding or grasping for long periods.
- Avoid activities that cause pain. In case a movement causes pain, the individual should look for another activity that accomplishes the same task without triggering pain.
- If the muscles are flexible, it will reduce overall tension on the tendons which minimizes the inflammation to the sheaths that cover them.