Effective Treatments for Thumb Tendonitis (De Quervain's) - A Comprehensive Guide

Thumb tendonitis (deQuervain's tendonitis) is a condition brought on by irritation or swelling of the tendons found along the thumb side of the wrist. If you have thumb tendonitis, you probably feel pain when making a fist, gripping objects or turning your wrist.

Goal

• The goal of treating thumb tendonitis is to relieve the pain caused by the inflammation and swelling.

Rest

• The first treatment usually is to avoid activities that can cause pain and swelling. A doctor sometimes will recommend that you wear a thumb splint.

Reducing Inflammation

• Your doctor probably will recommend that you apply ice packs to the thumb and possibly prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs. An alternative practitioner may recommend anti-inflammatory herbs, such as bromelain or white willow, or nutritional support, such as vitamin C or calcium.

Corticosteroids

• Another option is to inject corticosteroids, such as cortisone, hydrocortisone and prednisone, into the tendon sheath. The sheath is the layer of membrane around a tendon that allows it to move.

Surgery

• Surgery is usually a last resort. The goal of surgery is to open the compartment where the tendons reside to make more room for the irritated tendons.