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The Best Treatment for de Quervains Tenosynovitis

For most people, activities that require you to clench your fist cause no problems. The tendons in your wrist and thumb move without obstruction. But when the area around these tendons become irritated and inflamed, it can become difficult, if not painful, to move your hand in this manner, prompting the condition de Quervain's tenosynovitis. Overuse and repetitive stress to the wrist and thumb are two of the most common causes of this condition. However, there are treatments available to bring about relief, some better than others.

  1. Self-care Treatment

    • One of the best treatments for de Quervain's tenosynovitis involves a series of self-care measures. When affected with this condition, immobilize the troubled wrist and thumb. You want to ensure that you can no longer move your wrist from left to right as well as your thumb across your hand. The most effective method is with a brace known as a spica splint. This device not only restricts the movement of your wrist, but also holds the thumb in place to better treat the condition and rest the affected tendons.

      When the pain hits, especially within the first 48 hours of the discomfort, ice the area along the inside of your wrist up to your lower thumb. This can reduce inflammation and thereby decrease any associated pain. And much like any other injury, apply the ice for no longer than 20 minutes four to five times throughout the day. If the pain is still present after 48 hours, heat the area for the same amount of time as icing. While this won't decrease inflammation, it can serve to reduce pain and limber the area.

      You may also want to consider taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) to further reduce swelling as well as pain. An over-the-counter product, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, work well in this situation, so take the recommended dosage on the package, which is usually one to two tablets every four to six hours.

    Physical Therapy

    • You may want to see a physical therapist if the pain persists. Since the condition is commonly caused by overuse or repetitive stress, it's quite easy for it to recur. A physical therapist or other medical professional can better assist you in finding ways to strengthen the area through targeted exercises and resistance training, as well as help modify certain activities that may be prompting the condition.

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