What is De Quervains Tenosynovities?
Have you ever had trouble carrying your shopping bags through the loops? Is it uncomfortable to make a fist? This throbbing pain near the base of the thumb can be extremely irritating. It might occasionally take our attention away from our daily tasks. This is a problem that must be addressed. But first, let's understand De Quervain's tenosynovities.
The inflammation of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis is known as De Quervain's tenosynovities. These are the tendons of the wrist's first compartment. The pain in the base of the thumb is common in patients with de Quervains tenosynovities. This area may also have redness, warmth, and swelling.
De quervains tenosynovities does not discriminate on the basis of gender or color. It can affect males and females of various races. Though this is accurate, studies reveal that women, particularly new moms, are more affected than men, with an 8 females to 1 male ratio.
Tendon inflammation is caused by trauma to the affected area. Accidents while gardening, as well as regular wrist overuse, can cause trauma. Tissue trauma can also be caused by activities such as carrying a plastic grocery bag by the loop. Sewing, knitting, and typing can all result in injury. Because of the awkward way new moms carry their kids, they are also susceptible to this condition.
The Finkelstein test can be used to diagnose De Quervain's tenosynovities. This is accomplished by inserting the thumb inside the fist. After that, your fist is bowed downwards toward your pinky finger. It can be done on both wrists to compare and evaluate the reaction differences. The presence of pain is an indication of de quervains syndrome. A sign of the illness is the presence of redness and swelling.
The tenosynovities of the quervains are treatable. Rest, splinting of the afflicted wrist, and ice compresses are all options for treatment. Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers can help to alleviate pain. Injections of cortisone are the most efficient treatment for tendon inflammation. After the injection and recuperation period, normal activity may resume in 3-4 weeks. If the pain and inflammation persist despite multiple cortisone injections, a surgical technique may be used. This is done to alleviate inflammation that does not respond to cortisone injections.
Patients with de Quervains syndrome have a fairly good prognosis. Almost all patients recover if the condition is addressed promptly. If no efforts are made to solve the problem, irreparable damage may result.
Going to the doctor for a basic thumb discomfort can be a major inconvenience in your busy schedule. However, it is still critical that we visit our physician to get treated. We don't want to experience the long-term ramifications and issues that could arise if we ignore this minor issue.
Role Of Physiotherapy in De Quervains Tenosynovitis:
The inflammation of tendons on the side of the wrist near the base of the thumb is known as De Quervain's tenosynovitis. The extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus tendons are two of these tendons.
Overuse injury to the wrist is the most prevalent cause of the disorder, which commonly develops in those who use a powerful grasp with ulnar deviation of the wrist on a daily basis (such as a tennis serve).
Inflammation of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendon sheaths in the first dorsal compartment causes this injury. The most common presenting symptoms are pain and soreness over the radial portions of the wrist.
A simple strain injury to the extensor pollicus longus tendon can cause De Quervain's tenosynovitis. Lifting small children into car seats, moving large grocery bags by the loops while playing tennis/badminton, and lifting gardening pots up and into place are all common causes.
One of the diagnostic procedures for De Quervains tenosynovitis is the Finklestein test. By putting the thumb into the palm of a fist and then ulnarly deviating the wrist, this test stresses the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brives. Mild De quervains may cause pain solely when the thumb metacarpal joint is extended against resistance.
Splints to maintain the thumb and wrist in a functional position, identification of aggravating activities, and suggestion of alternative postures to prevent these movements are among the physiotherapy therapies used in the acute stage. Massage the tendon in a transverse motion. To prevent adhesions, instruct the patient to undertake tendon-gliding exercises.
To relieve inflammation and edema, cryotherapy (e.g., cold packs, ice massage) is recommended. Phonophoresis with Ultrasonic massage utilizing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory gel or Iontophoreis, as well as suggested activity adjustments to reduce tension and pressure on the tendons.
Thermal modalities such as short wave diathermy are used in chronic stages. The tendons are massaged by transverse friction massage. Resting the afflicted tendons by splinting the relevant joint. Examine the biomechanics of the functional activity that is causing the symptoms and create a program to restore muscle length, strength, and endurance. Starting with range of motion exercises, Gliding Sliding movements of the joint, and adding strengthening activities as the patient advances. As needed, conduct an ergonomic workstation assessment and reconfigure the station to eliminate uncommon joint movements.Pinching, wringing, rotating, twisting, and clutching are examples of repetitive hand motions that should be avoided or reduced. A home-exercise regimen to strengthen the muscles and tendons was recommended.