What is De Quervain’s tenosynovitis?
This is a condition that affects the two tendons that control the movement of the thumb called the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and the extensor pollicis brevis (EPB). On their way to the thumb, the APL and EPB tendons travel side by side along the outside edge of the wrist and pass through a sheath (tunnel) that helps keep the tendons in place. This tunnel is lined with a slippery thin soft-tissue layer called tenosynovium. The tenosynovium reduces friction between the tendons and their surrounding structures to allow the two tendons to glide easily through the tunnel as they move the thumb. Inflammation of the tenosynovium and tendon is called tenosynovitis. In de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, the tendons within the tunnel become inflamed which constricts their movement due to increased friction. This also leads to pain and tenderness along the thumb side of the wrist which is most noticeable when forming a fist, grasping or gripping, or when turning the wrist.
Potential Causes of de Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is associated with overuse leading to a repetitive strain injury, which can become a vicious cycle due to chronic inflammation leading to stenosis of the sheath. It is most common among workers who perform rapid repetitive hand and thumb activities involving grasping, pinching, squeezing, pulling, or pushing. Specific activities such as intensive mouse/trackball use, typing, texting, piano playing, sewing, knitting, and playing racquet sports are potential risk factors. Inflammatory arthritic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis that affect the thumb can also cause de Quervain’s tenosynovitis. The condition is also common during pregnancy. Scar tissue from direct trauma to the wrist or tendon can also restrict movement of the tendons. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis has the highest incidence among middle-aged women.
History and Symptoms of de Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis can have a gradual or sudden onset of localized pain or tenderness over the thumb side of the wrist which is most noticeable with thumb and wrist motion. If left untreated, the pain may spread further up the forearm and into the thumb. Additionally, swelling or thickening may be seen over the thumb side of the wrist. Pinching, grasping and certain movements of the thumb and wrist will aggravate the pain. The patient may have difficulty moving the wrist and thumb and feel a “snapping” or “catching” sensation with thumb movement. In certain cases, the two tendons may “squeak” during the thumb and wrist movements.
