Quervain’s tendonitis is a painful pathology that affects the tendons of the wrist on the thumb side, an inflammation of the lining of the tendons of the hand (abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis).
What causes it?
The exact cause of de Quervain’s tenosynovitis is not known, but it is more common in women (between 30 and 50 years of age) than in men and is associated with any activity that relies on repetitive hand or wrist movements.
What are the symptoms?
The main symptoms are as follows:
- Needling sensation
- Sensation that the thumb is “locked in place”.
- Pain near the thumb
- Difficulty moving the thumb and wrist
- Swelling
How is it diagnosed?
The specialist will examine the hand to determine if there is pain when pressure is applied to the wrist on the thumb side and may perform a physical examination based on the Finkelstein maneuver, sometimes an ultrasound may be prescribed.
How long does such tendinitis last?
It has a high tendency to last for months, although the less time of evolution and the faster the treatment is given, the more effective it will be.
How is Quervain’s tendinitis treated?
It is recommended to rest the joint, the thumb and wrist can also be immobilized, avoid repetitive movements, apply ice, or in the most severe cases by surgery.
How can the pain be relieved?
To reduce pain and swelling, the doctor may recommend painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs or applying cold.