Slocum Orthopedics evaluates and treats De Quervain’s tenosynovitis for patients across Eugene, Springfield, and the southern Willamette Valley. Our hand and wrist specialists help patients understand the cause of thumb-side wrist pain and the treatment options available for relief.
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is one of the most common types of wrist tendonitis. The condition occurs when the tendons and/or synovium along the thumb side of the wrist become swollen and inflamed. As the tendons swell, they can become pinched within the tight band of tissue, called the tendon sheath, that surrounds them. This can make thumb and wrist motion painful.
De Quervain’s may be caused by repetitive motion or trauma to the thumb side of the wrist. It is not uncommon for mothers to develop the condition after giving birth.
The most common symptom of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is pain on the thumb side of the wrist. Pain is often worse when moving the wrist toward the pinkie side of the hand. Patients may also notice swelling along the thumb side of the wrist, a catching sensation near the affected tendons, increased pain with heavy gripping activities, or difficulty lifting or carrying objects.
Everyday activities, such as lifting a frying pan or carrying groceries, may become painful. In some cases, pain can be severe enough that patients feel unable to use the wrist because of discomfort.
Diagnosis of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination of the hand and wrist. Your provider will review your symptoms, evaluate wrist and thumb motion, and assess the severity of your symptoms to help determine whether De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is present.
Medical Management of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis can often be managed with nonsurgical care. While nonsurgical treatment may not immediately resolve every symptom, these options can help reduce irritation, inflammation, and pain.
Activity Modification
Changing or limiting activities that increase wrist and thumb pain may help relieve symptoms. This may include reducing repetitive gripping, lifting, twisting, or other movements that place stress on the thumb side of the wrist.
Bracing
Wrist bracing or immobilization may be used to reduce tendon inflammation and pain in the wrist. A brace may help limit painful motion and give the irritated tendons time to calm down.
Steroid Injections
For non-diabetic patients, one or two steroid injections may resolve symptoms 80% of the time. The injections may reduce inflammation and relieve some symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis.
When Surgery is Considered
If symptoms continue or interfere with normal wrist and thumb use, surgery may be recommended. A De Quervain’s release creates more space for the tendon to move freely. During the procedure, the tendon sheath is released to reduce pressure around the affected tendons.
If you are having ongoing thumb-side wrist pain or difficulty using your hand for daily activities, the next step is to make an appointment with a Slocum hand and wrist specialist.
Why Patients in Eugene Turn to Slocum for Hand and Wrist Care
For more than 80 years, Slocum Orthopedics has helped keep the Eugene–Springfield community moving. Our hand and wrist specialists provide care for common and complex conditions affecting the fingers, hand, wrist, and upper extremity, supported by on-site imaging, therapy, and orthopedic surgical care.
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August 15, 2025
Slocum to Open New Surgery Center in Eugene
Slocum Orthopedics is building a brand-new, physician-led ambulatory surgery center right here in Eugene. This state-of-the-art facility will expand access to high-quality orthopedic care and help meet the growing demand for surgical services in our community.
