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De quervain’s disease – causes
De Quervain’s disease, also known as de Quervain’s syndrome, is a musculoskeletal disorder that affects the wrist and thumb.To understand the causes of this condition, you need to look at the anatomy of the wrist.De Quervain’s disease occurs due to inflammation of the tissues covering the tendons of the long extensor pollicis and brevis radialis muscles, which pass through the tendon tunnel at the wrist.
The basic cause of this disease is overload and excessive activity, especially repetitive movements of the thumb and wrist.This is often seen in people who work in jobs that require repetitive movements, such as office workers, chefs, hairdressers, and people who practice sports that require intensive use of the hands, such as tennis.
De quervain’s disease – symptoms
The symptoms of de Quervain’s disease are characteristic and quite easily recognizable.The main symptoms include:
- Pain and swelling on the outside of the wrist, around the thumb;
- Difficulty moving the thumb and wrist, especially when trying to grasp objects;
- A cracking or popping sensation when you move your wrist;
- Sometimes pain radiates towards the thumb or index finger.
These symptoms may gradually worsen and lead to difficulties in performing daily activities, resulting in the need for treatment.
De quervain syndrome – diagnosis
The diagnosis of de Quervain’s syndrome is based on a clinical examination and patient interview.The doctor may examine the patient’s wrist and thumb, looking for characteristic symptoms such as pain, swelling, and crepitus.Sometimes it may be necessary to perform additional tests, such as imaging tests, e.g. magnetic resonance imaging, to rule out other diseases.
De quervain syndrome – treatment
Treatment of de Quervain syndrome can be conservative or surgical, depending on the severity of the disease and the patient’s response to therapy.
Conservative treatment mainly involves:
- Avoiding or limiting activities that worsen symptoms;
- Taking anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g. non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);
- Using dressings or a wrist brace for stabilization;
- Physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises that help strengthen muscles and improve range of motion.
If there is no improvement or the disease is in an advanced stage, surgical treatment may be necessary to release the tendon or remove inflammatory tissue.In most cases, with appropriate treatment, patients experience significant improvement and regain full functionality of their wrist and thumb.
Exercises in de quervain’s syndrome
Rehabilitation exercises play an important role in the treatment of de Quervain syndrome.They help strengthen the wrist muscles, increase flexibility and improve range of motion.Examples of exercises include gentle stretching of the wrist and thumb and strengthening the muscles of the hand and forearm.
It is worth remembering that exercises should be performed under the supervision of a specialist or physiotherapist to avoid possible injuries or worsening of symptoms.
Your suggestions
If you suspect that you suffer from de Quervain’s disease or de Quervain’s syndrome, do not delay in consulting a doctor.Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can speed up the recovery process and minimize the risk of complications.
Also remember to take care of your wrist health by avoiding excessive strain, regularly stretching and strengthening muscles, and using ergonomics when performing daily activities.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in the health of the musculoskeletal system and diseases related to the wrist, we also recommend reading other articles on this topic available on our website.You will learn more about the prevention and treatment of various ailments that may affect this area of the body.
It is worth investing in health education and taking care in your daily life to prevent conditions such as de Quervain’s disease.