Massage therapy · Kitchener–WaterlooDe Quervain's Tendonitis
Elbow, Wrist & Hand
What It Is
Sometimes known as De Quervain's tenosynovitis, this condition happens when the tendons at the base of the thumb become irritated and squeezed inside the narrow tunnel they pass through at the wrist (AAOS, n.d.). Tendonitis refers to tendons that are swollen and inflamed. When the tendons and their covering become thickened, they can cause tenderness and pain along the thumb side of the wrist. This tends to be more noticeable when making a fist, gripping or grasping something, or turning your wrist (AAOS, n.d.).
De Quervain's Tendinitis Anatomy
Not a diagnosis — for more information, contact me or another trusted healthcare provider.
Treatment
Self-Care & Treatment
How to Treat De Quervain's Tendinitis
Tips
- Pain with this condition is felt on the thumb side of the wrist – this is the main symptom. It can appear suddenly or gradually, starts in the wrist and can travel up the forearm. It is usually worse when the thumb and hand are being used, especially when forcefully grasping or lifting objects or twisting the wrist (AAOS, n.d.).
- Swelling may be seen on the thumb side of the wrist, and sometimes there is a fluid-filled cyst there too (AAOS, n.d.).
- You may feel a catching or snapping sensation when you move your thumb (AAOS, n.d.).
- Pain and swelling can make it difficult to move your thumb and wrist (AAOS, n.d.).
- The most important tip is this: try to minimise the thing you are doing that is aggravating your pain. There may be some cases where this is very hard, for example, picking up your baby repeatedly. So talk to me about ways you can minimise the pain by adapting your technique.
Treatments you may want to discuss with your family doctor or nurse practitioner
Treatment
My Approach
When It's Sore
- I leave the sore spot alone and work the forearm, upper arm and shoulder, with your arm raised
- Trigger point work through the forearm
- Gentle lymphatic drainage for swelling, and pain-free movement so the wrist and thumb don't stiffen
- Cool applications in the clinic, and I'll show you how to use ice safely at home
- Help choosing and fitting a splint, and easier ways to grip, lift and hold your baby
As It Settles
What to Expect
Typical Course
Typical course: For a mild case, most people come once or twice a week for the first two or three weeks, then weekly, spacing visits out as they manage more on their own, with a reassessment at about 4 to 6 weeks. Some mild cases settle over a few weeks, and strengthening usually builds over three to six weeks. If you needed an injection or surgery, the timeline follows your doctor's or surgeon's plan and recovery usually takes longer, often a few months after surgery.
What I Focus On
Assessment
Forearm Release
Thumb & Wrist Mobility
Progressive Loading
Grip & Activity Changes
Sources
References
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) (n.d.) De Quervain's tenosynovitis. Available at: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/de-quervains-tendinosis/ (Accessed: 7 October 2026).
- British Society for Surgery of the Hand (BSSH) (n.d.) De Quervain's syndrome. Available at: https://www.bssh.ac.uk/patients/conditions/19/de_quervains_syndrome (Accessed: 7 October 2026).