Elbow
Thumb-side wrist pain responds to structured load management.
De Quervain's tenosynovitis causes pain along the thumb side of the wrist, often during gripping or repetitive hand movements. Treatment focuses on managing irritation and gradually restoring load tolerance.
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Common symptoms
- Pain along the thumb side of the wrist
- Pain with gripping, pinching or twisting movements
- Swelling or tenderness over the thumb tendons
- Pain when making a fist or turning the wrist
- Difficulty with tasks like opening jars or turning keys
Common causes
- Repetitive thumb and wrist movements
- New or increased hand-intensive activity
- Pregnancy or postpartum hormonal changes
- Direct trauma to the thumb or wrist
- Sustained gripping or pinching activities
How Stance approaches de quervain's tenosynovitis
We identify the activities contributing to tendon irritation and build a graded return to loading. Treatment combines load management, isometric and isotonic strengthening, and activity modification.
Relevant services
Pain & Injury Recovery
Assessment-led recovery for musculoskeletal pain, whether it is chronic, recurring or caused by a specific incident. We identify the root cause and build a targeted, progressive recovery plan.
Women's Health Physiotherapy
Personalised physiotherapy for pregnancy, postpartum recovery and pelvic-floor concerns. Our programmes help rebuild strength, improve movement and support a safe return to exercise and everyday activity.
Frequently asked questions
Is De Quervain's common after pregnancy?
Yes. Hormonal changes and repetitive lifting of a newborn are common triggers. It typically responds well to conservative management.
Do I need a cortisone injection?
Not necessarily. Structured physiotherapy is effective for many patients. Injection may be considered if symptoms persist despite conservative management.
Ready to find the root cause?
Our clinical team uses objective testing to build a personalised plan around your specific needs.
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