De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: Understanding Wrist Pain in Mothers and Working Professionals
By Dr. Nitin Rawal – Orthopaedic & Sports Injury Specialist, Gurgaon
Introduction
If you’ve been feeling pain on the thumb side of your wrist — especially when lifting your baby, holding your phone, or twisting your hand — you might be suffering from De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis.
This is a common wrist problem that affects both men and women, but it’s particularly seen in new mothers, office workers, and mobile users.
At AOSC – Advanced Orthopaedic and Sports Injury Clinic, Gurgaon, we frequently treat this condition using advanced and non-surgical methods for fast recovery.
What is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is a painful inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist.
These tendons help you move your thumb and wrist smoothly. When they become irritated due to overuse or repetitive movement, they swell and cause pain — especially when gripping or twisting.
This condition is also called “Mommy’s Thumb” or “Washerwoman’s Sprain” because it often occurs in mothers who frequently lift their babies or perform repeated hand movements.
Common Causes
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis usually develops due to repetitive strain or poor wrist posture. Common triggers include
- Repeated lifting of babies or heavy objects
- Overuse of mobile phones or computers
- Sports or gym activities involving the wrist
- Household chores like cooking, washing, or cleaning
- Hormonal changes during and after pregnancy
- Arthritis or other wrist inflammations
Symptoms to Watch For
Typical symptoms include:
- Pain near the base of the thumb
- Pain that worsens while gripping, lifting, or twisting
- Difficulty moving the thumb smoothly
- A “catching” or “snapping” feeling when moving the thumb
- Pain that can radiate up the forearm
If left untreated, the pain can become constant and interfere with your daily activities.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually made through a clinical examination.
Your doctor may perform the Finkelstein test, where you bend your thumb inside your fist and move your wrist — if this causes sharp pain, it confirms the condition.
Sometimes, an ultrasound or MRI may be recommended to rule out other causes of wrist pain.
Treatment Options at AOSC, Gurgaon
The good news is that most patients recover without surgery when treated early.
At Dr. Nitin Rawal’s Sports Injury Clinic, we follow a step-by-step, customised approach:
1. Rest and Immobilisation
Using a thumb spica splint or wrist brace helps reduce stress on the tendons and allows healing.
2. Ice Therapy and Physiotherapy
Cold packs and gentle physiotherapy exercises help control inflammation and restore movement.
3. Medications
Anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) are prescribed to reduce pain and swelling.
(Only after evaluating patient condition — safe even in breastfeeding mothers under supervision.)
4. Ultrasound Therapy / Tendon Release Techniques
Advanced physiotherapy methods like ultrasound or laser therapy can speed up recovery.
5. Corticosteroid Injection
For persistent pain, a local steroid injection around the inflamed tendon gives quick and lasting relief.
6. Surgical Treatment (Rarely Needed)
In severe or long-standing cases, a minor surgical release may be done to free the trapped tendons.
This is a simple daycare procedure with fast recovery.
Home Care Tips
- Avoid lifting heavy objects or twisting the wrist repeatedly.
- Use both hands when picking up your baby.
- Apply ice packs for 10–15 minutes twice a day.
- Perform wrist and thumb stretching exercises as advised.
- Maintain proper hand posture while using your phone or computer.
Why Choose Dr. Nitin Rawal for Wrist Pain Treatment in Gurgaon
- Fellowship-trained Sports Injury and Arthroscopy Specialist
- Expertise in wrist and hand tendon disorders
- Advanced non-surgical and minimally invasive treatment options
- Personalised physiotherapy and rehabilitation programs
- Convenient location in Gurgaon with full rehab support
When to Seek Help
If you’ve had wrist pain for more than a few days — especially if you are a new mother or someone who works long hours on a computer — it’s best to get examined early.
Timely treatment prevents chronic inflammation and ensures complete recovery.
Conclusion
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis may seem like a minor wrist problem, but early diagnosis and proper care make all the difference.
With expert evaluation and modern treatment options, you can return to pain-free daily life quickly.
For consultation or treatment, visit:
Dr. Nitin Rawal – Orthopaedic & Sports Injury Specialist
AOSC, Gurgaon
Book Appointment: 87001801015
