subject: What Is De Quervains Tenosynovities? [print this page] Have you ever experience pain while carrying your grocery bags through the loops? Is it painful when forming a fist? This painful sensation in the base of the thumb can be very annoying. It sometimes distracts us from doing our daily activities. We must address this problem. But first, let us first know what De Quervains tenosynovities is.
De quervains tenosynovities is the inflammation of abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis. These are tendons of the first compartment of the wrist. Patients of de quervains tenosynovities usually feel the pain in the base of the thumb. Redness, warmth and swelling may also be obvious in this area.
De quervains tenosynovities does not choose gender or race. It can affect both females and males of different race. Though this is true, researches have shown that women, especially new mothers, are more affected than males in a ratio of 8 females per 1 male.
The causes of the inflammation f the tendons are related to trauma in the said area. Trauma may come from accidents while gardening, and repeated overuse of the wrist. Activities like carrying a plastic grocery bag by the loop can also cause trauma in the tendons. Sewing, knitting and typing can also cause damage. New mothers are also prone to this problem because of the awkward way they carry the babies.
De quervains tenosynovities can be diagnosed by performing the Finkelstein test. This is performed by putting the thumb inside when forming a fist. The fist is then bended downwards toward your pinky finger. It can be performed to both wrists to compare and determine the difference in the reaction. Experiencing pain is a positive sign of de quervains syndrome. Presence of redness and swelling is also a symptom of the disorder.
De quervains tenosynovities is curable. Treatments include rest, splinting in the affected wrist and ice compress. Pain can be relieved by taking anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers. Cortisone injections are the most effective treatment for the inflammation of the tendons. Normal activity may proceed 3-4 weeks after injection and rest. If the pain and inflammation still persist even after several cortisone injections, then surgical procedure may be implemented. This is to reduce the inflammation that does not subside with cortisone injection.
Prognosis for patients with de quervains syndrome is very good. Almost all patients recover as long as they address the problem immediately. If steps to solve the problem are not taken, then permanent damage may occur.
Going to the doctor for a simple pain in the thumb may be a big hassle in your busy schedule. But it is still important that we go to our physician to have it cured. We do not want to suffer future consequences and complications that may happen if we disregard this simple problem.
