De Quervain’s syndrome is a condition that primarily affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, resulting in pain and discomfort. At Fascia Clinics, we are committed to providing you with the knowledge and support you need to understand and manage this condition effectively.
What is De Quervain syndrome?
De Quervain’s syndrome is characterized by inflammation of a tendon sheath that runs along the thumb side of the wrist. This leads to pain and swelling, especially during movements that put strain on the thumb, such as lifting and gripping.
Definition and basic understanding
This condition affects the tendon sheaths in the wrist and the tendons that run in them. sheaths. Inflammation of the tendon sheath causes swelling and stiffness in the area. This makes it harder for the tendons to slide in the sheaths. De Quervain’s syndrome can affect people from all age groups and lifestyles, but certain groups, such as pregnant women and individuals who perform repetitive hand movements, are particularly at risk.
How De Quervains affect the body
Beyond localized pain and swelling, De Quervain’s syndrome can limit the functions of the hand, thumb and wrist. It can make everyday activities challenging and painful to perform such as writing, lifting or even getting dressed.
Why do people get De Quervain’s syndrome?
Risk factors and contributing activities
There are several known risk factors and activities that can increase the risk of developing De Quervain’s syndrome:
Monotonous and repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as those performed in gardening, golf or racket sports or even lifting children.
Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or other forms of inflammatory arthritis can also contribute to the development of the condition.
Direct injury to the wrist or prolonged exposure to vibration can also lead to De Quervain’s syndrome.
Age. Both men and women aged 30-50 have a higher risk of developing De Quervain’s syndrome.
Most common causes of De Quervain syndrome
There is a strong link between certain lifestyle factors and De Quervain’s syndrome. Pregnancy and fluid retention, for example, can increase a woman’s risk of developing the condition. If you have developed de Quervain’s syndrome during pregnancy, there is a high risk that your symptoms will persist until you give birth. Occupational or hobby-related activities, involving monotonous and repetitive movements of the wrist and thumb, can also contribute significantly.
Symptom of De Quervain’s syndrome
The symptoms of De Quervain’s syndrome vary in intensity but usually include:
Pain and tenderness at the base of the thumb, which may radiate along the forearm.
Swelling or calluses near the base of the thumb.
Difficulty performing movements involving the thumb and wrist, especially when gripping, twisting or pinching with the fingers.
A distinct feeling that the movement of the thumb is ‘sticky’, or that there is a ‘stop-and-go’ phenomenon when moving.
Diagnosis and testing
The diagnosis of De Quervain’s syndrome is usually based on the patient’s medical history and a physical examination. Finkelstein’s sign is a common tool for diagnosis. The person bends the thumb inwards the palm and then bends the wrist towards the little finger. If the person feels pain, the test is positive.
Treatment of De Quervain syndrome
Treatment methods for De Quervain’s syndrome vary but may include:
Use of splints to immobilize the wrist and thumb, giving the structures time to heal.
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Changes in activities to avoid movements that cause pain and promote healing.
Surgical intervention may be a last resort. Surgical release of the tendon compartment may be considered for patients who do not respond to conservative treatment.
Risk factors and complications
Untreated De Quervain’s syndrome can lead to long-term pain, loss of range of motion and difficulty performing daily tasks. Women, especially during and after pregnancy, are at greater risk of developing the condition.
How Fascia Clinics can help
At Fasciaklinikerna, we specialize in seeing and treating the body from a holistic perspective. We perform fascia treatments, a highly effective treatment method that focuses on treating and maintaining the fascia in our body.
Fascia is the network of connective tissue that binds and permeates everything in our body. All cells, tissues (even bone), nerves, muscles and joints contain fascia. Fascia clinic treatment consists of balancing the whole body. This is to release the pressure that the body has put on itself to compensate for an injured area. The treatment also increases circulation in the area so that swelling and inflammation are relieved.
By addressing the health and function of the fascia, fascia treatments help to reduce pressure on the tendons, improve circulation in the area and thus relieve inflammation in the wrist. If the problems have been present for a long time, multiple treatments may be required.
Forecast and recovery
With the right treatment and management, many people can fully recover from De Quervain’s syndrome. Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but with adequate support and adaptation of activities, symptoms can significantly reduce within a few weeks to months. It is important to help yourself maintain between treatments, such as avoiding activities that aggravate the condition and eating a nutritious and balanced diet.