Finkelstein’s Test: patient tucks their thumb into their fist and bends the wrist toward the pinky side. A positive test produces sharp pain along the thumb side of the wrist
How long does De Quervains tendonitis take to heal?
Everything You Need to Know About De Quervains Tendonitis
What is De Quervains Tendonitis?
De Quervain’s tendonitis is a condition where the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist become irritated or inflamed. These tendons pass through a narrow tunnel near the base of the thumb and help with thumb movement and grip. When inflamed, it causes pain near the wrist and base of the thumb, especially with movements like gripping, lifting, or twisting.
An analogy…
Imagine the tendons like ropes sliding through a narrow tunnel. If the tunnel becomes too tight or the ropes become swollen, they start to rub and cause pain, just like the tendons in De Quervain’s tendonitis.
What are other names that De Quervains tendonitis can be called?
De Quervain’s Tendonitis, De Quervains Tenosynovitis, De Quervains Syndrome
What causes De Quervains tendonitis?
This condition affects the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendons, which run along the thumb side of the forearm and pass through a tight sheath near the wrist. Repetitive wrist and thumb movements, especially those involving lifting, pinching, or twisting, can cause friction and swelling in the sheath, leading to pain and restriction.
What are the signs and symptoms of De Quervains tendonitis?
- Pain near the base of the thumb or outer wrist, especially with thumb or wrist movement
- Swelling or tenderness over the thumb-side tendons
- Pain when gripping, pinching, lifting, or turning objects
- A catching or snapping sensation in some cases
- Pain may gradually increase over time with use
- Symptoms often worsen with repetitive tasks or baby care
What tests are used to diagnose De Quervains tendonitis?
With early treatment and proper management, mild cases can improve in 2 to 4 weeks. Moderate or long-standing cases may take 6 to 12 weeks to settle. In severe or chronic cases, corticosteroid injections or even surgery may be required, with a recovery period of 3 to 6 months, including rehab.
How does De Quervains tendonitis happen?
- Repetitive wrist or thumb movements
- Lifting objects with the thumb extended, such as a baby or groceries
- Sudden increase in hand activity without rest
- Poor wrist or thumb mechanics during tasks
- Post-pregnancy due to hormone-related changes and baby handling
- Sports or hobbies like gardening, tennis, racquet sports, or gaming
What treatment can help De Quervains tendonitis?
- Rest and activity modification
- Thumb/wrist splint to reduce movement and allow healing
- Ice application and anti-inflammatory medication
- Manual therapy (massage, mobilisation, dry needling) for soft tissue relief
- Stretching and strengthening exercises as symptoms improve
What exercises or stretches can I do for De Quervains tendonitis?
- Gentle thumb and wrist stretches
- Tendon gliding exercises to restore smooth movement
- Isometric thumb strengthening
- Grip and pinch strength exercises using putty or therapy balls
- Postural and ergonomic corrections to avoid future strain
- Gradual return to gripping, lifting, and work tasks
What products can help with De Quervains tendonitis?
Wrist ulnar deviation
Start in a seated position with your forearm resting on a table, palm facing down.
Keeping your palm in contact with the table, move your hand towards your little finger and then return back to the central position and repeat.
Wrist radial deviation
Start in a seated position with your forearm resting on a table and your palm facing down.
Keep your palm in contact with the table and move your hand towards your thumb, then return back to the central position.
Wrist flexion and extension – palms together
Sit upright on a stable chair or wheelchair with your back supported and a table close in front at elbow height.
Ensure both feet are placed flat.
Place your elbows onto the table.
Place your palms and fingers firmly together to make a pyramid with your forearms.
Ensure your wrists are as straight as possible
Push your right hand over to the left.
Push your left hand over to the right.
Ensure your wrists do not twist or move towards or away from you.
Move only as far as is comfortable.
Do not force the wrists.
