What is de Quervain's tenosynovitis?
De Quervain's tenosynovitis affects the tunnel on the thumb side of the wrist that carries two tendons (abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis). When that tunnel thickens and narrows, the tendons hurt every time they glide, causing thumb-side wrist pain (Ilyas et al., 2007). In a study of young, active people, it was more common in women and in those over 40 (Wolf et al., 2009).
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
What does it feel like?
- Pain and swelling on the wrist just below the thumb
- Worse when gripping, twisting or lifting a baby
- A catching feeling when you move your thumb
How is it different from carpal tunnel syndrome?
| De Quervain's | Carpal tunnel syndrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Problem | Tendons and their sheath | Compressed median nerve |
| Where it hurts | Side of the wrist by the thumb | Palm, thumb through part of ring finger |
| Main symptom | Pain with movement | Numbness and tingling, often at night |
If numbness is the main issue, read about carpal tunnel syndrome; for computer-related aches, see computer vision and VDT syndrome.
Diagnosis and treatment
The classic exam is the Finkelstein test (from Finkelstein, 1930): tuck your thumb into your palm and bend your wrist toward your pinky; sharp pain suggests de Quervain's. Treatment starts with a thumb spica splint, cutting back on repetitive motions and anti-inflammatory pain relievers. A corticosteroid injection into the sheath is a common next step, and surgery to release the narrowed sheath is an option if it doesn't settle (Ilyas et al., 2007).
FAQ
- Can texting cause de Quervain's?
- Heavy, repetitive thumb use can add strain, though causes vary. Breaks and switching hands help.
- Why is it common after having a baby?
- Lifting and holding a newborn works the thumb and wrist over and over, and hormonal changes may also play a role.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-25
References
- Ilyas, A. M., Ast, M., Schaffer, A. A., & Thoder, J. (2007). De Quervain tenosynovitis of the wrist. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 15(12), 757–764.
- Wolf, J. M., Sturdivant, R. X., & Owens, B. D. (2009). Incidence of de Quervain's tenosynovitis in a young, active population. Journal of Hand Surgery (American Volume), 34(1), 112–115.
- Finkelstein, H. (1930). Stenosing tendovaginitis at the radial styloid process. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 12(3), 509–540.