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De Quervain’s Disease
Treatment in Boise

De Quervain’s disease, also called De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It can make simple motions like gripping, lifting, or twisting your wrist uncomfortable or even impossible. At Idaho Hand Center, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment to reduce pain, restore movement, and help you return to your daily activities.

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What Is De Quervain’s Disease?

This condition occurs when the tendons that control thumb movement become irritated and inflamed as they pass through a narrow tunnel at the wrist. The tendon sheath may swell or thicken, making it harder for the tendons to glide smoothly.

Common symptoms include:

Pain or tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist
Swelling near the base of the thumb
Difficulty gripping, pinching, or lifting objects
A “sticking” sensation when moving the thumb
Pain that worsens with repetitive thumb or wrist motions

De Quervain’s disease is often caused by repetitive hand and wrist use, such as lifting a baby, gardening, typing, or certain sports activities. It can also develop after an injury or during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

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How Is De Quervain’s Disease Diagnosed?

At Idaho Hand Center, diagnosis starts with a comprehensive examination and discussion of your symptoms and activities. A common diagnostic test is the Finkelstein test, in which the thumb is bent into the palm and the wrist is moved toward the little finger. This motion often reproduces the pain.

Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, are rarely needed but may be used to rule out other wrist conditions.

What Are the Treatment Options for De Quervain’s Disease?

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and restoring normal tendon movement. Non-surgical treatments often work well, especially when started early. Options may include:

Activity modification to avoid repetitive thumb or wrist motions
Splinting to immobilize the thumb and wrist while the tendons heal
Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and discomfort
Corticosteroid injections to target inflammation in the tendon sheath
Hand therapy with stretching and strengthening exercises

If symptoms persist after conservative care, surgical release may be recommended. This outpatient procedure involves enlarging the tendon sheath to allow the tendons to move freely without irritation.

When Should You See a Hand Specialist?

If wrist or thumb pain interferes with your work, hobbies, or daily life, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Early evaluation at Idaho Hand Center can lead to quicker relief and prevent long-term damage to the tendons.

Get Expert De Quervain’s Disease Care at Idaho Hand Center

At Idaho Hand Center, our specialists offer advanced, personalized care for De Quervain’s disease to help you regain strength, mobility, and comfort in your wrist and thumb.