De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
Why does the thumb side of my wrist hurt when I lift my baby or grip?
Pain where the thumb tendons run along the wrist, common in new parents and with repetitive thumb use.
What it feels like
Pain and sometimes swelling on the thumb side of the wrist, worse with gripping, lifting with the thumb out, wringing, or lifting a baby.
What is actually happening
Two tendons that move the thumb pass through a narrow tunnel at the wrist. With repeated or increased use the tendons and their sheath become irritated and thickened. It is common in new parents and with repetitive hand tasks.
How it is assessed
Assessment includes tenderness over the tendons, a specific thumb-and-wrist stretch test, grip and pinch strength, and screening of the thumb joint and the nerves, which can cause similar pain.
How it is treated
A systematic review found moderate evidence that a corticosteroid injection given by a physician helps in the short term, and that adding a thumb splint to the injection improves results. Physiotherapy adds activity modification, such as changing how you lift, and, once symptoms settle, gradual strengthening. Surgery is considered when symptoms persist.
What to do first
Change how you lift and grip so the thumb is not stretched out under load, for example scooping a baby with your palms up, and have it assessed for a splint and plan.
Where this is assessed
- Athlete's Care Sports Medicine Centres Yonge & Eglinton · Mon/Wed/Fri · 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Book at Athlete's Care
- Push Pounds Sports Medicine Downtown Toronto · Tue/Thu · 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM Call Push Pounds to book
References
This page is based on the following clinical practice guidelines and research.