From the Research
The most effective treatment for de Quervain tenosynovitis is corticosteroid injections into the tendon sheath, with success rates of 50-80% after one or two injections, as supported by the study published in 2014 1. The treatment for de Quervain tenosynovitis typically begins with conservative measures, including:
- Rest, ice application, and immobilization of the thumb and wrist with a splint or brace for 2-6 weeks to reduce inflammation and pain
- Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (400-800mg three times daily) or naproxen (250-500mg twice daily) to manage pain and reduce inflammation If these measures are insufficient, corticosteroid injections into the tendon sheath (typically 1ml of 40mg/ml methylprednisolone or equivalent with 1ml of lidocaine) may provide significant relief, with success rates of 50-80% after one or two injections, as shown in the study published in 2014 1. Additional treatment options may include:
- Physical therapy focusing on gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the thumb and wrist to restore function and prevent recurrence
- Occupational therapy to modify activities that aggravate the condition
- Surgical release of the first dorsal compartment for cases resistant to conservative treatment after 4-6 months, as discussed in the study published in 2015 2. It's worth noting that a systematic review published in 2020 3 found that laser therapy and therapeutic ultrasound were the most used and effective physical therapies for De Quervain tenosynovitis, but the primary treatment remains corticosteroid injections.