De Quervain Tenosynovitis

De Quervain Tenosynovitis is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It involves inflammation of the sheath surrounding the tendons that control thumb movement, leading to pain and swelling near the base of the thumb. This condition primarily affects the musculoskeletal system, specifically the wrist and thumb. People with this condition often experience difficulty gripping or pinching objects due to discomfort. The pain typically worsens with thumb and wrist movement, especially when lifting or grasping. It is commonly caused by repetitive hand or wrist motions.

De Quervain Tenosynovitis is an inflammatory condition characterized by thickening and irritation of the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus tendons within the first dorsal compartment of the wrist. The pathology involves stenosing tenosynovitis, where the tendon sheath becomes narrowed, restricting tendon gliding and causing pain. It is often caused by repetitive thumb abduction and wrist ulnar deviation, leading to microtrauma and inflammation. Clinically, it presents with localized tenderness over the radial styloid and pain exacerbated by thumb movement. This condition is significant because it impairs hand function and can limit daily activities requiring thumb use. It is more common in women and may be associated with activities involving repetitive wrist motion or postpartum changes.