DeQuervains Tenosynovitis

DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It is caused by inflammation and irritation of the tendons responsible for thumb movement.

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Your Guide to Understanding DeQuervains Tenosynovitis

DeQuervains Tenosynovitis

What is DeQuervains Tenosynovitis?

DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis is a painful condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It occurs when the tendons and their surrounding sheath become inflamed and irritated. The tendons involved are the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus, which are responsible for controlling movement of the thumb.

The exact cause of DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis is often unknown, but it is commonly associated with repetitive activities or overuse of the wrist. Activities such as repetitive gripping, twisting, or lifting can put strain on the tendons, leading to inflammation. Other factors that may contribute to the development of this condition include hormonal changes, direct trauma to the wrist, or underlying inflammatory conditions.

How can Chiropractic help treat DeQuervains Tenosynovitis?

Chiropractic services can offer relief for individuals experiencing DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the tendons in the thumb. Chiropractors can help alleviate symptoms by addressing imbalances in the wrist and hand. Through gentle adjustments, chiropractors can improve joint mobility and reduce stress on the affected tendons, promoting healing and reducing pain.

Additionally, chiropractic care often includes soft tissue techniques like myofascial release or Graston technique to help break down scar tissue and adhesions in the affected area. By providing targeted care, chiropractic services can play a complementary role in managing DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis and improving hand function.

What causes DeQuervains Tenosynovitis?

DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis is typically caused by repetitive movements or overuse of the wrist and thumb. Activities that involve repetitive gripping, twisting, or lifting can put strain on the tendons responsible for controlling thumb movement. This strain can lead to inflammation and irritation of the tendons and their surrounding sheath.

What treatments might help DeQuervains Tenosynovitis?

The treatment for DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis aims to alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Here are some common approaches that can improve the condition:

  • Rest and Immobilization: Keeping the thumb and wrist straight with the help of a splint or brace can rest the affected tendons, allowing them to heal.
  • Avoiding Repetitive Thumb Movements: Minimizing activities that involve repetitive thumb movements can help reduce strain on the tendons and prevent further irritation.
  • Cold Therapy: Applying ice packs wrapped in a thin towel to the wrist for about 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help reduce pain and swelling.
  • Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, injections of steroids or local anesthetics into the tendon sheath can provide effective relief from pain and inflammation.
  • Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises and techniques to improve thumb and wrist mobility, strength, and flexibility. They may also use modalities like ultrasound or heat therapy.
  • Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists can provide guidance on modifying activities and ergonomics to reduce stress on the tendons and improve function.

Signs of DeQuervains Tenosynovitis:

The signs of DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis typically include pain, swelling, and tenderness at the base of the thumb and wrist. You may experience discomfort when performing activities that involve gripping, pinching, or twisting motions. The pain can radiate along the thumb and up the forearm in some cases.You may also notice difficulty with thumb and wrist movement. Simple tasks like grasping objects, turning doorknobs, or opening jars may become challenging due to stiffness and limited range of motion. You might feel a 'catching' or 'snapping' sensation when moving the thumb or hear a rubbing sound near the affected area.

In some instances, there may be visible swelling or a bump over the tendons at the base of the thumb. The skin around the area may appear red or warm to the touch. If you experience any of these signs, it's advisable to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms of DeQuervains Tenosynovitis:

The symptoms of DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis typically include

  • Pain, swelling, and tenderness at the base of the thumb and wrist. You may feel pain when you try to grip, pinch, or twist objects. The pain can extend along the thumb and up the forearm.
  • You might experience difficulty with thumb and wrist movement. Simple tasks like grasping objects, turning doorknobs, or opening jars may become challenging due to stiffness and limited range of motion.
  • There may be a sensation of the thumb getting stuck or catching when you move it, and you might hear a rubbing sound near the affected area.
  • In some cases, there may be visible swelling or a bump over the tendons at the base of the thumb. The skin around the area may appear red or warm to the touch.
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When is the right time to see a Chiropractor for DeQuervains Tenosynovitis?

The right time to see a chiropractor for DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis is when you begin experiencing symptoms or notice difficulty with hand and wrist movements. If you notice pain, swelling, or limited range of motion in your thumb or wrist, it's advisable to seek professional help.

Meet our Lead Chiropractor

Dr. Brett Herlehy

Dr. Brett Herlehy

Chiropractor

Doctor of Chiropractic from New York Chiropractic College

Dr. Brett enjoys working with active individuals looking to reach the next level and also anyone who is trying to incorporate more physical activity into their daily lives.

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