De Quervain’s condition results in the loss of mobility in the thumb, wrist, and even the arm in some cases. This condition is the result of repetitive movements of the fingers, such as typing, farming, or holding up a baby. The following is a quick guide to the diagnosis and treatment options available when a diagnosis of De Quervain’s is reached.
Symptoms
The symptoms of De Quervain’s include pain near the base end of the thumb, as well as the wrist. This pain occurs while resting as well, but especially while exerting the thumb and the hand. Motions such as making a fist or grasping at something to pick it up will be the most painful indicators of this condition.
Diagnose
It is typically important to consult with a medical professional for the treatment of De Quervain’s condition. If you try to do it yourself at home, based on your own knowledge or perhaps something you read, you may end up hurting yourself further. This condition can become permanent and advance to a surgical intervention being required if not controlled early.
To correctly diagnose, your doctor will usually ask you to perform the Finkelstein test. This test entails making a fist with your thumb under your other fingers and then bending your wrist toward your little finger. If pain occurs on the thumb side of the wrist, it is most likely De Quervain’s Condition.
Treatment
There are two ways to treat De Quervain’s Disease. The first is through surgery. This usually is the only option when the condition of your wrist is advanced enough that other options are no longer viable. The operation opens up the thumb compartment and makes more room for the tendons to move freely.
The second option is the nonsurgical methods of treatment. These include using splints, which help give your hand support, anti-inflammatory medication, avoiding activities that exert the affected area or using products such as the De Quervains Wand.
This product is straightforward to use and can be used at home, by people of all ages. This device, when appropriately used, alleviates the pain, swelling, and hopefully need for future surgery.
