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    4. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

    De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

    De Quervain's tenosynovitis is assessed and treated at Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London by our experienced orthopaedics specialists. Using advanced diagnostic imaging and a comprehensive clinical assessment, our multidisciplinary team works to identify the cause of your symptoms and develop a personalised treatment plan to help relieve pain, restore function and support recovery for patients experiencing De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. 

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    • De Quervain's tenosynovitis is a painful condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It develops when the outer layer surrounding these tendons becomes irritated or inflamed, making it painful to move the thumb or wrist during everyday activities such as gripping, lifting or twisting. 

    • Symptoms of De Quervain's tenosynovitis can develop gradually or occur following repetitive use of the wrist or thumb. 

      Common symptoms include:

      • Pain along the thumb side of the wrist
      • Pain that worsens when gripping, lifting or twisting objects
      • Swelling near the base of the thumb
      • Tenderness over the affected tendons
      • Difficulty moving the thumb or reduced grip strength
      • A catching or snapping sensation when moving the thumb

      If left untreated, symptoms may become more persistent and interfere with everyday activities, reducing hand function and grip strength. Seeking an early assessment can help confirm the diagnosis and allow appropriate treatment to begin before symptoms worsen.

    • De Quervain's tenosynovitis causes are linked to irritation of the tendons that move the thumb as they pass through a narrow tunnel at the wrist. Repetitive movements can increase friction within the tendon sheath, leading to inflammation and pain.

      Common De Quervain's tenosynovitis causes and risk factors include:

      • Repetitive gripping, lifting or twisting activities
      • Frequent use of the thumb and wrist during work, sport or hobbies
      • Caring for young children, particularly repeated lifting
      • Previous injury to the wrist
      • Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
      • Pregnancy and the postnatal period, when hormonal and physical changes may increase the risk

      Because wrist pain can have several underlying causes, including arthritis, tendon injuries or nerve compression, a thorough assessment is important to establish the correct diagnosis.

    • At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, our orthopaedic specialists begin with a detailed consultation to understand your symptoms, medical history, daily activities and any previous injuries before recommending further investigations.

      Assessment may include:

      • Physical examination, including specific clinical manoeuvres to assess the affected tendons and reproduce symptoms
      • Ultrasound, which provides detailed images of the tendons and surrounding soft tissues and can identify inflammation or tendon abnormalities
      • MRI scan, which may be recommended when the diagnosis is unclear or to assess for other conditions affecting the wrist or thumb
      • X-rays, which may be used to exclude arthritis, fractures or other causes of wrist pain, although they do not diagnose De Quervain's tenosynovitis itself

      Not every patient requires imaging. Your consultant will recommend the most appropriate investigations based on your symptoms and clinical findings.

    • How to treat De Quervain's tenosynovitis depends on the severity of your symptoms, your lifestyle and how long the condition has been present. In many cases, non-surgical treatment can successfully relieve pain and improve function.

      Your personalised treatment plan may include:

      • Activity modification to reduce strain on the affected tendons
      • A thumb splint to support the wrist and thumb while the tendons recover
      • Anti-inflammatory medication, where appropriate
      • Hand therapy and targeted exercises to improve movement and strength
      • Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection, where clinically appropriate, to reduce inflammation and pain

      If symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, your consultant will discuss the most appropriate next steps, including referral for further specialist care if required.

    • Mayo Clinic Healthcare provides internationally recognised expertise in central London, delivering specialist-led care within a highly personalised environment. Patients looking for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis diagnosis benefit from:

      • Access to highly experienced rheumatology and orthopaedic specialists
      • Multidisciplinary collaboration across diagnostic and rehabilitation teams
      • Advanced imaging and evidence-based treatment options
      • Personalised care plans tailored to individual needs
      • Connection to the wider Mayo Clinic network for complex cases
      • A central London location for UK and international patients

    Private health insurance

    Mayo Clinic Healthcare works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Health Partners Group, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay arrangements are also available.

    Private assessment for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis

    If you’re experiencing De Quervain’s tenosynovitis symptoms and are wondering how to treat this condition, you can book a consultation via our online consultation form, or by calling us on +44 (0) 207 871 2575.

     

    Medically Reviewed by

    Mr Karthik Karuppaiah, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

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