The wrist is a joint with multiple bones, tendons, and nerves that connects the arm to the hand, and each of these structures can induce pain. If you have pain over the base of the thumb and wrist, it might be due to DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis.
Typically DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis is due to tendon overuse, especially with repetitive gripping of the hand and bending of the wrist. It can also occur from repetitive blows to the area, such as when bumping a volleyball with poor technique.
Typically DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis is a clinical diagnosis based on your medical history and physical examination. In-house X-rays may be needed to ensure there is not a fracture. Ultrasound can demonstrate swelling and irritation of the tendons. An MRI may also be used to assess for edema or more subtle soft tissue injury, but is usually not needed.
Since overuse is typically the cause of DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis, a period of relative rest is needed to allow the tendons to heal. Additional treatment options may be layer in as needed and your degree of condition dictates, to include:
Reviewed by: Dr. Niteesh Bharara, MD.
Reviewed by: Dr. Niteesh Bharara, MD.