De Quervain’s disease

The treatment of de Quervain’s disease by our hand surgeon can involve both non-surgical and surgical interventions, depending on the severity and response to conservative treatments. Here is an overview of the treatment options commonly employed by hand surgeons for de Quervain’s disease:

1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
   • Non-surgical treatments are typically the first line of approach for de Quervain’s disease and are effective in many cases.
   • Immobilization: The hand surgeon may recommend immobilizing the thumb and wrist with a splint or brace to rest the affected tendons and reduce inflammation.
   • Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.
   • Activity Modification: Modifying activities that exacerbate symptoms, such as repetitive thumb movements or gripping, can help alleviate pain and allow the tendons to heal.
   • Hand Therapy: Hand therapists can provide exercises and stretches to improve thumb and wrist function, reduce pain, and promote healing. They may also use modalities like heat or ultrasound to alleviate symptoms.
2. Corticosteroid Injections:
   • Corticosteroid injections are commonly used by hand surgeons to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of de Quervain’s disease.
   • The hand surgeon administers a corticosteroid medication, often combined with a local anesthetic, into the tendon sheath of the affected tendons.
   • The injection helps to decrease inflammation and relieve pain, allowing for improved function and healing.
3. Surgical Intervention (De Quervain’s Release):
   • If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief or if the symptoms of de Quervain’s disease are severe or persistent, a hand surgeon may recommend surgical intervention.
   • The surgical procedure for de Quervain’s disease is known as de Quervain’s release or de Quervain’s tenosynovectomy.
   • In this procedure, the hand surgeon makes a small incision over the affected tendon sheath and carefully releases it, allowing the tendons to move freely without friction.
   • The goal of de Quervain’s release surgery is to create more space within the tendon sheath, relieving the irritation and facilitating smooth movement of the tendons.
   • De Quervain’s release surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, and recovery time is generally quick, with most individuals experiencing significant improvement soon after the procedure.

Following either non-surgical or surgical treatment, our hand surgeons may recommend a period of hand therapy or rehabilitation to help restore strength, flexibility, and function of the thumb and wrist. Hand therapy may involve exercises, range of motion activities, and ergonomic modifications to prevent recurrence.

It’s important for individuals with de Quervain’s disease to consult with the hand surgeon of the Eisenhower Clinic to receive a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. Our hand surgeon will consider factors such as the severity of symptoms, response to conservative treatments, and functional requirements in determining the most suitable treatment approach.