DE QUERVAIN'S TENDINOSIS

DE QUERVAIN'S TENDINOSIS - De Quervain's tendinosis occurs when the tendons around the base of the thumb are irritated or constricted. The word "tendinosis" refers to a swelling of the tendons. Swelling of the tendons, and the tendon sheath, can cause pain and tenderness along the thumb side of the wrist. This is particularly noticeable when forming a fist, grasping or gripping something, or when turning the wrist.

Symptoms of de Quervain's tenosynovitis 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

Patients often describe a feeling of inflammation, but studies have shown that the process is not inflammatory.  People of all ages get it.  When new mothers develop de Quervain syndrome, it typically appears 4 to 6 weeks after delivery.  The old theory that it was caused by wringing out cloth diapers has been replaced by concerns about holding the baby, but changes in hormones and swelling seem more probable.

Signs
Pain may be felt over the thumb side of the wrist. This is the main symptom. The pain may appear either gradually or suddenly. Pain is felt in the wrist and can travel up the forearm. The pain is usually worse when the hand and thumb are in use. This is especially true when forcefully grasping objects or twisting the wrist.

• Swelling may be seen over the thumb side of the wrist. This swelling may accompany a fluid-filled cyst in this region.
• A "catching" or "snapping" sensation may be felt when moving the thumb.
• Pain and swelling may make it difficult to move the thumb and wrist.