บทความ

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: Thumb Pain That Shouldn't Be Ignored

Pain around the base of the thumb or the thumb side of the wrist while gripping, lifting, opening jars, or using a smartphone may be a sign of De Quervain's tenosynovitis. This condition occurs when the tendon sheath surrounding two thumb tendons becomes irritated and inflamed, making thumb and wrist movements painful.

De Quervain's commonly affects office workers, healthcare professionals, parents caring for young children, musicians, racket sport athletes, and anyone who performs repetitive hand and thumb movements. Repeated friction within the tendon sheath can gradually lead to inflammation, restricted tendon movement, and increasing discomfort during everyday activities.

Typical symptoms include pain over the thumb side of the wrist, tenderness at the base of the thumb, discomfort when gripping or twisting objects, and pain while lifting a child or carrying heavy items. Some individuals may also notice mild swelling or a catching sensation during thumb movement. Without appropriate treatment, symptoms may worsen and significantly interfere with work and daily function.

Physical therapy offers an effective conservative treatment option for many patients. A physical therapist evaluates thumb movement, wrist mobility, muscle strength, and daily activity patterns before designing an individualized rehabilitation program. Treatment may include manual therapy, tendon gliding exercises, stretching, progressive strengthening, activity modification, and ergonomic education to reduce stress on the affected tendons.

Early treatment often leads to faster recovery and reduces the likelihood of chronic pain or the need for more invasive procedures. By addressing both the symptoms and their underlying causes, physical therapy helps restore comfortable hand function and supports a safe return to everyday activities.