Wrist Tendonitis

Dequervain’s Tendonitis

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

Thumb and Wrist Pain Treatment in Northern Utah

If you’re experiencing pain along the thumb side of your wrist — especially when gripping, lifting, or turning your wrist — you may have De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis. This painful condition is caused by inflammation of the tendons that control thumb movement, often due to overuse or repetitive hand motions.

At Northern Utah Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Dr. Christopher English provides expert evaluation and effective treatment for De Quervain’s, helping patients throughout Layton, Bountiful, and the Salt Lake metro region return to daily activities without pain.

What Is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is a type of tendon inflammation that affects the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) — two tendons that pass through a narrow tunnel (called the first dorsal compartment) on the thumb side of the wrist.

When the sheath surrounding these tendons becomes irritated or thickened, it restricts smooth tendon movement, causing:

  • Pain near the base of the thumb

  • Swelling along the wrist

  • Difficulty with gripping, pinching, or twisting motions

Who Gets De Quervain’s?

This condition is common among:

  • New parents (often referred to as “Mommy Thumb”)

  • Construction workers, athletes, and musicians

  • Individuals who perform repetitive wrist and thumb movements

  • People with inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis

Women between the ages of 30 and 50 are statistically more likely to develop De Quervain’s, but it can affect anyone.

Symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

De Quervain’s often develops gradually, and symptoms can worsen over time. Common signs include:

  • Sharp or aching pain on the thumb side of the wrist

  • Swelling or tenderness just above the wrist joint

  • Pain with grasping or pinching objects

  • Pain that radiates up the forearm

  • A catching or snapping sensation when moving the thumb

  • Decreased range of motion or grip strength

Diagnosing De Quervain’s

Dr. English begins with a comprehensive physical exam of your hand and wrist. A common diagnostic test is the Finkelstein test, which involves:

  1. Making a fist with the thumb tucked inside

  2. Bending the wrist toward the pinky side (ulnar deviation)

If this movement causes sharp pain near the thumb or wrist, it is a strong indicator of De Quervain’s.

Imaging tests like X-rays are usually not necessary, but may be used to rule out fractures, arthritis, or other wrist pathologies.

Treatment Options for De Quervain’s

Treatment depends on how advanced your symptoms are. Dr. English offers both non-surgical and surgical options tailored to your activity level and lifestyle.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

1. Activity Modification

Reducing or eliminating repetitive thumb and wrist motions can ease inflammation. Patients are advised to rest from triggering tasks, including:

  • Lifting babies with the thumb extended

  • Frequent texting or gaming

  • Using tools, racquets, or keyboards

2. Splinting

A thumb spica splint can immobilize the thumb and wrist, allowing the inflamed tendons to rest and recover.

  • Usually worn full-time for 2–4 weeks

  • Can be custom-molded for comfort and effectiveness

3. NSAIDs (Anti-Inflammatory Medications)

Oral medications like ibuprofen or naproxen may reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

4. Corticosteroid Injections

One of the most effective non-surgical treatments, steroid injections can dramatically reduce inflammation within the tendon sheath. Many patients see significant relief after one injection.

Surgical Treatment

If symptoms persist despite conservative care, De Quervain’s release surgery may be recommended. Dr. English performs this procedure using a minimally invasive approach.

Procedure Overview:

  • Performed on an outpatient basis

  • A small incision is made over the first dorsal compartment

  • The tendon sheath is carefully opened to relieve pressure on the tendons

  • Tendons are inspected and released to allow smooth movement

Benefits:

  • Immediate reduction in tendon friction

  • High success rate and long-term relief

  • Minimal downtime and scarring

Recovery and Rehabilitation

After non-surgical treatment or surgery, most patients experience significant improvement within weeks. Recovery steps may include:

  • Occupational hand therapy to restore motion, strength, and function

  • Gradual return to normal activity, often within 2–4 weeks after surgery

  • Scar management and desensitization techniques post-op if needed

  • Education on ergonomic techniques to prevent recurrence

Preventing De Quervain’s

While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

  • Avoiding excessive repetitive hand movements

  • Using ergonomic wrist supports when typing or using tools

  • Lifting objects (especially babies) with your palm rather than pinching with your thumb

  • Taking frequent breaks during hand-intensive tasks

  • Performing stretching and strengthening exercises for the wrist and thumb

Real-Life Patient Story

"After giving birth to twins, I developed intense wrist pain every time I picked them up. I thought it was just part of new motherhood — until I saw Dr. English. A simple steroid injection changed everything. I was back to caring for my babies pain-free in just a few days."
— Megan L., Layton, UT

Why Choose Dr. Christopher English for De Quervain’s Treatment?

✅ Fellowship-trained orthopedic hand and upper extremity surgeon
✅ Extensive experience treating tendon disorders like De Quervain’s
✅ Offers both conservative care and minimally invasive surgery
✅ Convenient locations in Layton and Bountiful
✅ Personalized care with onsite imaging and therapy support

Serving Patients Throughout Northern Utah

Dr. English treats patients from across Davis County, Weber County, Salt Lake County, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re newly experiencing thumb pain or struggling with a long-standing wrist issue, we’re here to help you heal and get back to doing what you love.

Schedule a Consultation

Don’t let thumb and wrist pain interfere with your life. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term problems.

📍 Layton Location – IHC Layton Parkway
📍 Bountiful Location – 5 Points Clinic

📞 Call us or schedule your appointment online with Dr. Christopher English, your local expert in thumb and wrist tendon disorders.

Related Conditions We Treat:

  • Trigger Finger

  • Thumb Arthritis

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Wrist Sprains and Ligament Injuries

  • Ganglion Cysts

Frequently Asked Questions About De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

What is the fastest way to cure De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?

For many patients, the fastest relief comes from a corticosteroid injection, which reduces tendon sheath inflammation. When paired with splinting and rest, some patients experience major improvement within 1–2 weeks. However, treatment effectiveness can vary based on severity and how early it's caught.

How long does De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis last?

Mild cases can improve within 4 to 6 weeks when treated early. More severe or chronic cases may last several months, particularly if activities that caused the condition continue. Timely diagnosis and proper treatment can significantly shorten recovery time.

Can De Quervain’s go away on its own?

Sometimes — but not often. In mild cases, symptoms may improve with rest and reduced activity. However, De Quervain’s is usually progressive and often requires medical intervention such as splinting, therapy, or injections to fully resolve symptoms and prevent long-term damage.

Will a wrist brace help De Quervain’s?

Yes. A thumb spica brace or splint is often the first step in conservative treatment. It immobilizes the thumb and wrist, allowing inflamed tendons to rest. Wearing a brace consistently for 2–4 weeks can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent worsening.

What happens if De Quervain’s is left untreated?

Untreated De Quervain’s can lead to persistent pain, stiffness, and loss of thumb function. The tendon sheath may thicken, and tendon movement can become restricted, increasing the risk of permanent dysfunction. Early treatment helps avoid chronic complications.

Is De Quervain’s surgery painful?

Most patients report only mild discomfort after surgery. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, and recovery is relatively quick. Pain is typically managed with over-the-counter medications, and patients often return to light activity within a few days.

Can I still use my phone or computer with De Quervain’s?

Limited use is okay, but frequent texting, scrolling, or typing may aggravate symptoms. If you're wearing a splint or recovering from treatment, it’s important to modify hand positions, take breaks, and avoid prolonged thumb movements to allow healing.

What kind of doctor treats De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?

A hand and upper extremity orthopedic specialist is the best provider to treat this condition. Dr. Christopher English is a fellowship-trained orthopedic hand surgeon offering expert care for De Quervain’s, including both non-surgical and minimally invasive surgical solutions.

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