Thumb Tendonitis

Thumb tendonitis, also known as De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the tendons located on the thumb side of the wrist. These tendons are responsible for the movement of the thumb. The inflammation causes pain and discomfort, particularly when moving the thumb or wrist. Here’s an overview of its symptoms, causes, when to see a physiotherapist, risks, prevention strategies, and treatment options:

Symptoms

1. Pain and tenderness along the thumb side of the wrist.
2. Swelling or inflammation over the thumb tendons.
3. Difficulty grasping or pinching objects, especially with the thumb and index finger.
4. A popping or catching sensation when moving the thumb.
5. Worsening pain with thumb or wrist movement, particularly with activities that involve gripping, grasping, or twisting motions.

Causes:

Thumb tendonitis is commonly caused by repetitive motions or overuse of the wrist and thumb. Activities such as typing, using a mouse, playing sports like tennis or golf, or lifting heavy objects can strain the thumb tendons, leading to inflammation. It can also occur due to direct trauma to the thumb or wrist area.

When to See a Physiotherapist:

It’s advisable to consult a physiotherapist if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty using your thumb or wrist. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and promote faster recovery. Additionally, if the pain is severe or accompanied by redness, warmth, or fever, seek medical attention promptly.

Risks:

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing thumb tendonitis, including repetitive movements associated with certain occupations or activities, improper ergonomics, previous injuries to the wrist or thumb, and conditions like arthritis that affect the joints and tendons.

How to Prevent:

To prevent thumb tendonitis, it’s essential to practice proper ergonomics and wrist/thumb positioning during activities. Take regular breaks to rest and stretch your hands and wrists, especially during repetitive tasks. Use ergonomic tools or equipment if possible, and avoid overexertion of the thumb and wrist.

Treatments:

1. Rest and Immobilization: Resting the affected thumb and avoiding activities that aggravate the symptoms can help reduce inflammation. Immobilizing the thumb with a splint or brace may be recommended to rest the tendons and promote healing.
2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Ice therapy should be applied for about 15-20 minutes several times a day.
3. Physical Therapy: A physiotherapist can prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the thumb and wrist muscles, improve flexibility, and promote healing. They may also use techniques such as ultrasound or massage to reduce inflammation and pain.
4. Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate pain and inflammation.
5. Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered directly into the inflamed tendon sheath to reduce inflammation and pain.
6. Surgery: If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgery may be considered to release the constricted tendon sheath and alleviate pressure on the affected tendons.

In summary, thumb tendonitis can cause significant discomfort and impact daily activities. However, with proper rest, therapy, and preventive measures, most individuals can successfully manage the condition and return to normal function. If you suspect you have thumb tendonitis, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.