Wrist Tendonitis Treatment
Your hands and wrists are essential tools that allow you to work, play and perform everyday activities. How well the hand and wrist interact depends on the integrity and function of the ligaments, tendons, muscles, joints and bones.
Wrist tendonitis can affect upper extremity function, causing disruptions at home and work and negatively impacting quality of life.
The human hand itself is very complex and delicate in structure.
Wrist (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.
Wrist Tendinitis FAQ
What Causes Wrist Tendinitis?
Wrist tendinitis, specifically **De Quervain’s tendinosis**, may be caused by **overuse**. It is also associated with **pregnancy** and **rheumatoid disease**. This condition is most common in **middle-aged women**.
What Are the Symptoms of Wrist Tendinitis?
Signs and symptoms of De Quervain’s tendinosis include:
- Pain: Usually felt over the **thumb side** of the wrist. The pain may develop **gradually or suddenly**, often traveling up the forearm. It worsens with activities such as **grasping objects** or **twisting the wrist**.
- Swelling: May be visible over the **thumb side of the wrist** and may include a **fluid-filled cyst**.
- Catching or Snapping Sensation: The thumb may feel like it "catches" or "snaps" when moved.
- Limited Motion: Pain and swelling may make it **difficult to move the thumb and wrist** properly.
What Are the Treatment Options for Wrist Tendinitis?
The goal of treating wrist tendinitis (**De Quervain’s tendinosis**) is to **relieve pain** and reduce **swelling and irritation**.
Nonsurgical Treatment
- Splints: May be used to **rest** the thumb and wrist.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs): Taken orally or injected into the tendon sheath to **reduce swelling and relieve pain**.
- Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms may allow the condition to improve on its own.
- Corticosteroid Injections: May help **reduce swelling and pain** when injected directly into the affected tendon sheath.
Surgical Treatment
If symptoms are **severe or do not improve**, surgery may be recommended. The goal of surgery is to **release the tendon sheath** to create more space for the irritated tendons.
The **procedure involves** opening the sheath over the inflamed tendons to relieve pressure.
Regardless of the treatment method, **normal use of the hand** can typically be resumed once **comfort and strength** return.