What Is the Very Best Treatment for Thumb Tendonitis?

Thumb tendonitis (deQuervain's tendonitis) is a condition brought on by irritation or swelling of the tendons found along the thumb side of the wrist. If you have thumb tendonitis, you probably feel pain when making a fist, gripping objects or turning your wrist.
  1. Goal

    • The goal of treating thumb tendonitis is to relieve the pain caused by the inflammation and swelling.

    Rest

    • The first treatment usually is to avoid activities that can cause pain and swelling. A doctor sometimes will recommend that you wear a thumb splint.

    Reducing Inflammation

    • Your doctor probably will recommend that you apply ice packs to the thumb and possibly prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs. An alternative practitioner may recommend anti-inflammatory herbs, such as bromelain or white willow, or nutritional support, such as vitamin C or calcium.

    Corticosteroids

    • Another option is to inject corticosteroids, such as cortisone, hydrocortisone and prednisone, into the tendon sheath. The sheath is the layer of membrane around a tendon that allows it to move.

    Surgery

    • Surgery is usually a last resort. The goal of surgery is to open the compartment where the tendons reside to make more room for the irritated tendons.

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