Last month we discussed several unexpected hand and wrist conditions associated with pregnancy – the first in a series of blogs on this subject.
We focused first on one of the most common pregnancy related hand and wrist conditions, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – discussing the symptoms and common treatment options available to expectant moms.
This month we’re discussing another common hand and wrist condition women may experience during pregnancy and following childbirth, deQuervain’s Tendonitis. Like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, deQuervain’s can develop as a result of the musculoskeletal changes, hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy related fluid retention and nursing – all of which can place stresses on the tendons.
DeQuervain’s Tendonitis affects the tendons around the base of the thumb and results when these tendons become irritated – causing the lining around the tendon, known as synovium, to become inflamed. Tendonitis actually means “swelling of the tendons.” Tendons are responsible for attaching muscle to bone.
The main symptom of deQuervain’s Tendonitis is pain and tenderness along the thumb side of the wrist, which may radiate down the thumb or up the forearm when rotating the wrist, grasping things or gripping. The swelling may also place pressure on nearby nerves, causing numbness in the thumb and index finger. The pain may be gradual or arise suddenly.
DeQuervain’s Tendonitis is generally easily diagnosed in the physicians office after a physical examination and discussion of patient history. Patients are then asked to perform a series of hand movements and discuss the level of discomfort and area of pain and tenderness.
Treating deQuervain’s Tendonitis
Treatment for deQuervain’s Tendonitis is generally nonsurgical and may include:
- Resting the thumb and wrist with the support of a splint
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- A steroid injection into the tendon compartment
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