DeQuervains Tenosynovitis

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain and difficulty with thumb and wrist movements. It occurs when the tendons and their surrounding sheath become inflamed or irritated, often due to repetitive thumb movements or gripping activities.

This condition is common in people who perform tasks such as typing, lifting, gardening, or caring for infants, and can develop gradually or following a minor injury.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness along the thumb side of the wrist
   
• Swelling over the base of the thumb
   
• Difficulty or pain when gripping, pinching, or lifting objects
   
• Sometimes a catching or “snapping” sensation of the thumb

Physiotherapy plays an important role in managing De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis and focuses on:

• Reducing pain and inflammation
   
• Improving wrist and thumb mobility
   
• Strengthening surrounding muscles and tendons
   
• Advising on activity modification and ergonomics to prevent recurrence