De Quervain’s Disease (De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis)
What is it?
De Quervain’s disease is a painful condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It occurs when the tendon sheath becomes inflamed or thickened, making it difficult for the tendons to glide smoothly during hand and wrist movement. This inflammation causes pain, swelling, and stiffness near the base of the thumb — especially when grasping, lifting, or twisting the wrist. Common causes include repetitive wrist motions, overuse, or strain associated with activities such as lifting children, typing, or sports. At FormetricSurgery, De Quervain’s release surgery is performed with refined microsurgical precision, offering long-term relief and restoring normal wrist function.
The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia and takes about 20–40 minutes. A small incision is made along the thumb side of the wrist, allowing the surgeon to open and release the tight tendon sheath, which relieves pressure and allows the tendons to move freely again. The wound is then closed with fine sutures and covered with a light dressing. Patients typically go home the same day and can use their hand gently within a few days.
-
Benefits of De Quervain’s Release -
Benefits of De Quervain’s Release - Relief from wrist and thumb pain
- Improved thumb movement and strength
- Reduction of swelling and stiffness
- Quick, minimally invasive procedure
- Minimal scarring and short recovery time
- Long-lasting results
-
Who Is a Good Candidate? -
Who Is a Good Candidate? You may benefit from surgery if you:
- Experience pain or tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist
- Feel clicking or catching when moving your thumb
- Have difficulty gripping or twisting objects
- Did not improve with non-surgical treatments such as splints, physiotherapy, or injections
Your surgeon will assess your wrist and discuss the most suitable treatment plan for your condition.
-
Aftercare and Recovery -
Aftercare and Recovery After surgery, the wrist will be covered with a light dressing. You may experience mild swelling, tenderness, or stiffness, which usually resolves within a few days to weeks. Gentle movement is encouraged early to restore flexibility and prevent stiffness. Stitches are typically removed after 10–14 days, and most patients regain full function within 2–4 weeks.
Frequently asked questions
Well-being starts here
-
Who is at higher risk of developing this condition? -
Individuals who perform repetitive hand movements, new parents frequently lifting infants, manual workers, and people aged 30–50 are at higher risk.
-
How is De Quervain’s disease diagnosed? -
Diagnosis is typically based on clinical examination, including specific wrist movement tests that reproduce pain, along with evaluation of symptoms.
-
Can De Quervain’s disease be treated without surgery? -
Yes. Early treatment may include rest, wrist or thumb splints, anti-inflammatory medication, physiotherapy.
-
When is surgery recommended? -
Surgery is recommended when conservative treatment fails to relieve symptoms and pain continues to interfere with daily activities.
-
Can De Quervain’s disease return after treatment? -
Recurrence is uncommon after successful treatment, especially following surgery, but avoiding repetitive strain and maintaining proper hand ergonomics helps reduce the risk.
