De Quervain’s tendonitis (syndrome), also known as Quervain’s tenosynovitis, is caused by irritation and inflammation of the tendons located at the base of the thumb, usually as a result of repetitive movements. Some traumatic injuries resulting from fractures in which an increase of tendon tension is evident can predispose the occurrence of tendinitis in the first dorsal compartment.
De Quervain’s Tendonitis~Symptoms
Sudden or gradual pain originating in the first dorsal compartment of the wrist and thumb, radiating to the forearm. Pain increases with mechanical effort, gripping or squeezing objects, together with pronosupination movements of the wrist. Possible loss of sensitivity in the thumb and index finger.
De Quervain’s Syndrome~Orthotic treatment
Passive wrist and thumb immobilising splints, in which the wrist, trapeziometacarpal and proximal metacarpophalangeal joints are immobilised at rest and in a functional position, enabling reduction of irritation and inflammation, are a perfect complement to rehabilitation techniques.
