De Quervain’s tenosynovitis treatment provides relief from painful thumb and wrist inflammation. At TranPlastic in Huntington Beach, our specialized hand surgeons offer effective solutions for this common condition, helping patients restore pain-free thumb movement and return to daily activities.
What Is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis (also called radial styloid tenosynovitis) is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. It occurs when the two tendons that control thumb movement become inflamed, causing pain with gripping, grasping, or twisting motions.
Common symptoms:
- Pain and swelling near the base of the thumb
- Difficulty gripping objects
- Pain when moving the thumb or wrist
- A sticking or snapping sensation
- Tenderness along the thumb side of the wrist
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Rest and activity modification: Avoiding repetitive thumb movements
- Splinting: Wearing a thumb spica splint to immobilize the thumb
- Anti-inflammatory medications: NSAIDs to reduce pain and swelling
- Corticosteroid injections: Powerful anti-inflammatory injection into the tendon sheath
Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatments fail, surgery releases the constricted tendon sheath:
- Outpatient procedure: Local anesthesia, 30 minutes
- Small incision: Near the wrist to access the tendon sheath
- Quick recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within weeks
Recovery Timeline
- Week 1-2: Rest and splinting. Avoid repetitive thumb use.
- Week 3-4: Gradual return to light activities.
- Week 6-8: Most patients fully recovered with physical therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes De Quervain’s tenosynovitis?
It’s often caused by repetitive hand or wrist movements, especially lifting with the thumb extended. Common in new mothers (“mommy thumb”), golfers, and people who use smartphones extensively.
How long does recovery take after surgery?
Most patients recover within 4-6 weeks. You can use your hand for light activities within days, with full strength returning over several weeks.
Are cortisone injections effective?
Yes, corticosteroid injections are effective for 70-80% of patients, often providing permanent relief with a single injection.
Can De Quervain’s tenosynovitis heal on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest and activity modification, but persistent symptoms require medical treatment to prevent chronic pain and limited function.
Is surgery necessary for De Quervain’s?
Most cases respond to non-surgical treatment. Surgery is only recommended when conservative treatments fail after 6-8 weeks.
About Dr. Tuan Tran
Dr. Tuan Tran specializes in hand and wrist conditions, providing expert care for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. With advanced training and a patient-centered approach, Dr. Tran ensures optimal outcomes for every patient.
Insurance & Cost
We accept most insurance plans. Contact us to verify your coverage and discuss treatment costs.
Locations We Serve
Main Location: Huntington Beach, CA
Serving Orange County: Newport Beach, Fountain Valley, Westminster, Garden Grove, Costa Mesa, Seal Beach
Contact Us
Experiencing thumb or wrist pain? Contact TranPlastic today.
Phone: 714-839-8000
Contact Page: Tran Plastic Surgery Contact Page