Symptoms and evaluation
Pain is typically located near the radial side of the wrist and may worsen with lifting, gripping, thumb motion or caring for a young child. Swelling and tenderness can occur near the base of the thumb.
Treatment options
Initial treatment can include activity modification, bracing, medication when appropriate and corticosteroid injection. Persistent symptoms that do not improve with nonsurgical care may be treated with surgical release of the involved tendon compartment.
Recovery and return to activity
After surgical release, thumb and wrist motion are generally restored progressively while the incision heals. Return to heavier gripping and lifting depends on symptoms and healing.
When to seek evaluation
Persistent pain, numbness, weakness, loss of motion, deformity or symptoms that interfere with sleep, work or daily activities are reasonable reasons to seek an orthopedic evaluation. Urgent injuries with severe deformity, open wounds or compromised circulation require prompt medical attention.
Common questions
De Quervain’s is a tendon-sheath problem rather than arthritis of the thumb joint, although the two conditions can sometimes cause pain in a similar region.
Specialized upper-extremity care
Dr. Devin W. Collins is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in hand, upper-extremity and microvascular surgery. Treatment recommendations are individualized to the diagnosis, severity, goals and needs of each patient.