De Quervain's disease is swelling and inflammation of the tendons
and the tendon sheath on the thumb side of the wrist.
The exact cause of de Quervain's disease is not known. It may occur
from injury to the wrist or tendon. Or it may occur as a result of activities that require
repeated wrist and thumb movements, such as knitting, wringing clothes, or
lifting heavy objects.
Symptoms may include swelling, a grating feeling in the wrist, and
pain and weakness along the thumb, wrist, and forearm. Pain increases with
activities such as lifting or pouring.
Initial treatment consists of rest, splinting, stretching, and
medicines to reduce inflammation. Physical therapy, a steroid injection, or
surgery may sometimes be needed.