Common Conditions

De Quervain's Syndrome

Symptoms, Common Causes and Treatments

De Quervain's Syndrome, also known as De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, is a condition caused by inflammation of the tendons located on the thumb side of the wrist. It typically affects the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendons. This inflammation can result in pain, swelling, and difficulty in thumb and wrist movements, especially when grasping and holding heavy objects.

Understanding The Causes of De Quervain's Syndrome

The primary cause of De Quervain's Syndrome is repetitive strain or overuse of the wrist and thumb. It is common among individuals who frequently perform activities such as lifting, gripping, or wringing. Factors such as hormonal changes (e.g., during pregnancy or postpartum), direct trauma to the wrist, and inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can also increase the risk of developing this condition. Parents of newborn infants are also more susceptible to developing this condition due to repetitive or prolonged lifting.

Signs and Symptoms of De Quervain's Syndrome

Pain and tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist, often radiating up the forearm.
Swelling near the base of the thumb.
Difficulty gripping objects or performing thumb movements.
A clicking sensation during thumb motion.
Increased pain during activities such as twisting or pinching.
Positive Finkelstein test (pain when the thumb is bent into the palm and the wrist is tilted toward the little finger).

Assessment and Treatment

Consulting a healthcare professional is vital for accurate diagnosis and effective recovery from De Quervain's Syndrome. Our experienced therapists will conduct a thorough physical examination to check your range of motion and evaluate your medical history.

Treatment Options: Depending on the severity of the injury, our physiotherapy approach may include:

Manual Therapy

Gentle mobilization of the wrist and thumb to alleviate stiffness and reduce pain, combined with soft tissue treatment of tight muscles on the forearm.

Advanced Modalities

Use of modalities such as ultrasound or laser therapy to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing.

Splinting

Providing thumb and wrist support to limit movements and allow the tendons to recover.

Acupuncture

Relieving pain and inflammation while promoting circulation.

Exercise Therapy

Progressive exercises to improve thumb and wrist strength and restore full mobility, as well as strengthening other relevant muscles along the kinetic chain.

Kinesio Taping

Providing structural support to the affected tendons during daily activities while promoting healing.

Can De Quervain's Syndrome heal on its own?

Yes, mild cases may improve with rest and avoidance of aggravating activities. However, physiotherapy can accelerate recovery and prevent recurrence.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery time varies but typically takes a few weeks to a few months with proper treatment.

Testimonials & Reviews

I came to them with chronic neck and knee issues, and they didn't just provide massage therapy. They took the time to thoroughly evaluate the source of my problems and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Through a combination of targeted hands-on therapy, customized strengthening exercises, and patient education, they helped me regain mobility and address the root causes of my pain. I learned the correct ways to strengthen the muscles and improve my posture to prevent future issues.
The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, taking the time to explain everything and ensure I understood how to continue my progress at home. Thanks to their expertise and dedication, I'm now pain-free and able to return to my regular activities without any limitations.

Arthur Liu

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I had never been a believer in physio therapy in the past or that my experience with multiple chain medical physiotherapy center had brought me nothing but temporary improvements. Until I had came across mobilize physiotherapy where they take the extra mile to examine your situation and tailor a physiotherapy session. The physiotherapists at Mobilize not only identifies the root cause and provide massages for pain relievers but also to provide take home exercises for improvements. I was never rush out the door for the next session and they ensure that I had receive the right treatment before the session ends.
I would highly recommend this physiotherapy center.

Edmond Chan

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As someone who regularly goes through the torment of backpain and neck pain, I was recommended by my friend to visit Mobilize Physiotherapy.
Everything - from appointment booking to the physiotherapy session itself - was very professional. Not only did Avery, my physiotherapist. give detailed explanations as he worked through my areas of pain, he taught me a few exercises that improve my core strength, which in turn could reduce my back and neck pain. Now, whenever I experience acute pain, I do these exercises and the pain eases away!
I highly recommend Mobilize Physiotherapy.

William Luk

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Excellent service. The physiotherapists are very professional, easy to communicate with and also give clear instructions on some home exercises that can help ease my pain. As a stay at home mom, I need a lot of strength on my daily routine and whenever I have any pain and problems I go to Avery for therapies and he is always helpful and caring
Highly recommended!

Samantha Lee

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I can't recommend my physio partner enough! They are always patient and provide valuable guidance to help me relieve chronic pain and improve my performance in jiu-jitsu. Their expertise has been invaluable to me. Highly recommended!

Felix Kung

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passionate, precise and comprehensive physiotherapy service, highly recommended for sudden onset or prolonged pain with unknown reason.

Sam Sam

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