Introduction
Wrist pain can disrupt daily activities, making even simple tasks like lifting objects or texting challenging. One common cause of wrist pain is De Quervain’s disease, a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. If you’re experiencing discomfort, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is the first step toward relief. In this blog, we’ll explore De Quervain’s disease and provide insights into effective treatment options, especially for those seeking care in Delhi.
What is De Quervain’s Disease?
De Quervain’s disease, also known as De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the tendons in the thumb and wrist. This inflammation can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the wrist or thumb.
Causes of De Quervain’s Disease
Several factors can contribute to De Quervain’s disease, including:
- Repetitive hand movements: Activities like typing, texting, or knitting can strain the tendons.
- Injury: Trauma to the wrist or thumb can lead to inflammation.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and fluid retention during pregnancy may increase the risk.
- Underlying conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions can exacerbate symptoms.
Symptoms to Watch For
Common symptoms of De Quervain’s disease include:
- Pain on the thumb side of the wrist, especially when gripping or twisting.
- Swelling around the wrist and thumb.
- A sticking or snapping sensation when moving the thumb.
- Difficulty performing tasks that involve fine motor skills.
Diagnosis and When to See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing persistent wrist pain, it’s important to consult a specialist. During a consultation, an orthopaedic doctor will:
- Perform a physical examination.
- Conduct a Finkelstein test, which involves bending the thumb across the palm to assess pain levels.
- Recommend imaging tests if necessary to rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options for De Quervain’s Disease
Dr. Sudhir Kapoor, a leading orthopaedic surgeon with over 40 years of experience in Delhi, specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like De Quervain’s disease. Here are some effective treatment options:
- Non-Surgical Treatments
- Rest and activity modification: Reducing repetitive wrist movements can help alleviate pain.
- Splinting: Wearing a thumb splint can provide support and reduce strain.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or/and local corticosteroid injections can reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises improve strength and flexibility in the wrist.
- Surgical Intervention
In severe cases where non-surgical methods fail, surgery may be required. Surgery involves releasing the tendon sheath to alleviate pressure and restore movement. Dr. Kapoor’s extensive experience ensures optimal outcomes for patients undergoing surgical treatment.
Why Choose Dr. Sudhir Kapoor for Treatment?
With a career spanning over four decades, Dr. Sudhir Kapoor has established himself as one of the most trusted orthopaedic surgeons in Delhi. Having led Orthopaedic Departments at renowned institutions like Lady Hardinge Hospital and the Indian Spinal Injury Centre, Dr. Kapoor combines expert knowledge with a compassionate approach to patient care. His proficiency in treating conditions like De Quervain’s disease makes him the go-to specialist for wrist pain management.
Preventing De Quervain’s Disease
While some risk factors, like pregnancy, cannot be avoided, you can take steps to reduce your chances of developing De Quervain’s disease:
- Take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks.
- Practice proper ergonomics when typing or using a mouse.
- Perform hand and wrist stretches regularly.
- Avoid overexerting the wrist during physical activities.
Conclusion
De Quervain’s disease may be painful, but it is treatable. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes. If you’re experiencing wrist pain, consult an experienced orthopaedic specialist like Dr. Sudhir Kapoor in Delhi. With a wealth of experience and a patient-focused approach, Dr. Kapoor can help you regain your quality of life.
