De quervain's tenosynovitis: Learn about de Quervain tenosynovitis

Learn about de Quervain tenosynovitis , a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Find out the symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment options from Mayo Clinic experts. De Quervain tenosynovitis , also known as washerwoman's sprain/strain, is a painful stenosing tenosynovitis involving the first extensor (dorsal) tendon compartment of the wrist (typically at the radial styloid). This compartment contains the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendons. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is caused by friction of the tendons within the first extensor compartment of the wrist against a thickened extensor retinaculum, resulting in wrist pain and swelling. It is most common in women aged between 30 to 50yrs, especially in those with occupations or hobbies involving repetitive movements of the wrist. In this article, we shall look at the pathophysiology, clinical features and management of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis . Patients with de Quervain's tenosynovitis have painful tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. With this condition, grasping or twisting can be painful.