DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis

What is DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis?

DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis, also called Mommy’s Thumb, affects the tendons of the wrist closest to the thumb.

Common Causes:

• • Repetitive hand motion (this condition is most commonly seen in new mothers.)
  • Direct injury to your wrist or tendon
  • Inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis

Symptoms of DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis may include:

• Pain near the base of your thumb
• Swelling near the base of your thumb
• Difficulty moving your thumb and wrist when you’re doing something that involves grasping or pinching
• A “sticking” or “stop-and-go” sensation in your thumb when moving it

When you arrive for your initial consultation, an Orthopedic Physicians Alaska (OPA) Hand Specialist will evaluate your areas of concern, discuss your symptoms, and develop a customized and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This evaluation is a necessary part of diagnosing your condition and providing the best possible care.

When diagnosing DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis, our experts will provide:

• • A medical, injury, and symptom history review
  • A physical examination
  • Ultrasound or MRI

Once an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease symptoms as quickly as possible.

Common Treatments:

Nonsurgical treatment options treat most cases of DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis. A customized treatment plan usually includes a combination of the following:

If your case is more serious, our physician may recommend outpatient surgery. Surgery involves a procedure in which your doctor inspects the sheath surrounding the involved tendon or tendons, and then opens the sheath to release the pressure so your tendons can glide freely.