WRIST TENDONITIS (DE QUERVAIN’S)

November 27, 2019

Paul Nielsen, MD

Orthopaedic Surgeon

What Are the Symptoms of Wrist Tendonitis?

• Pain along the side of the wrist
  • Using the hand usually worsens the pain
• Swelling frequently occurs
• Pain often develops slowly over time

What Causes Wrist Tendonitis?

• Overuse often causes inflammation and swelling around the tendons
  • Changes in activity often set this off
  • Often occurs during or after pregnancy as well
• A tunnel at the wrist normally help hold the tendons in place
  • The swollen, inflamed tendon becomes painful in the tunnel
  • Some patients have tighter tunnels, making them more likely to develop this

What Are the Treatment Options for Wrist Tendonitis?

• Steroid injections around the swollen tendon can reduce the swelling
  • These injections often resolve the symptoms
• Splinting can reduce the inflammation around the tendon 
• NSAIDS such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or meloxicam can decrease inflammation and pain
• Surgery is an option if pain does not improve
  • A small incision is made to open the tunnel around the tendon
  • The surgery is usually performed with just local anesthesia in about 10 minutes
  • No IV, no fasting, and no recovery from anesthesia medicines

What Is Recovery Like After Surgery?

• Patients normally are in a soft dressing for a few days after surgery
  • Sutures are removed 10-14 days after surgery
• Light use of the hand is encouraged immediately after surgery
  • Heavy use of the hand is allowed about a month after surgery
• Hand therapy is usually not required
• Recurrence is very uncommon

Recognize the symptoms of wrist tendonitis? Feel free to call New West at 308-865-2570 to make an appointment with Dr. Nielsen today. No referral required.

About the Author

Paul Nielsen, MD is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand & upper extremity surgery at New West Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery in Kearney, NE.