Loading...Please Wait

	...
	Systemic
	Health
	Treatments
	Exercise
	For Physicians

Select an Article:

• Skier's Thumb (Gamekeeper's thumb)
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Guyon’s Canal Syndrome (Handlebar Palsy)
• De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
• Fractures of the Forearm/Wrist
• Distal Radius Fracture Colles, Smith Fractures
• Scaphoid Fracture
• Fracture of the Hook of Hamate
• Mallet (Baseball) Finger

• Overview
• Treatments
• Goals
• Resources

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

This is a common condition in which the tendons that extend or straighten the thumb and their surrounding sheaths (extensor pollicus brevis and abductor pollicus longus) become inflamed. Pain is located at the base of the thumb and wrist.

De Quarvain's tenosynovitis is common with repetitive work activities such as wringing and scissoring tasks. Treatment includes rest, splinting, and rehabilitation to restore flexibility, reduce inflammation and modify tasks and activities. Surgery is rarely indicated, but a steroid injection is occasionally neccessary.

Possible Treatments

• Cryotherapy or Cold Therapy 
• Electrotherapeutic Modalities
• Hand Active Range of Motion 
• Isometric Exercise 
• Physical Agents
• Soft Tissue Mobilization 
• Stretching/Flexibility Exercise 
• Wrist Active Range of Motion 
• Wrist Joint Mobilization 
• Wrist Passive Range of Motion 
• Wrist Resistive Range of Motion 

Possible Treatment Goals

• Improve Function
• Improve Muscle Strength and Power
• Increase Oxygen to Tissues
• Improve Range of Motion
• Improve Relaxation
• Self-care of Symptoms
• Improve Safety
• Improve Tolerance for Prolonged Activities

Additional Resources

• 3d Anatomy of the wrist and hand
• DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis

Top of Article

List of Articles

The information in this medical library is intended for informational and educational purposes only and in no way should be taken to be the provision or practice of occupational therapy, medical, or professional healthcare advice or services. The information should not be considered complete or exhaustive and should not be used for diagnostic or treatment purposes without first consulting with your physical therapist, occupational therapist, physician or other healthcare provider. The owners of this website accept no responsibility for the misuse of information contained within this website.