De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

Thumb & Wrist Pain Relief — Specialist Care at Sozo Clinic

If you’re struggling with pain around the thumb side of your wrist — especially when lifting, twisting, or gripping — you may have De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis.

This condition can make simple tasks feel difficult or even impossible. At Sozo Clinic, we offer both non-surgical and surgical treatments, including a quick outpatient procedure under local anaesthetic for cases that don’t respond to conservative care.

What Is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?

De Quervain’s (pronounced “duh-KWER-vans”) is an irritation or inflammation of the two tendons that run along the thumb side of your wrist, affecting the first extensor compartment. It is commonly caused by:

  • Repetitive hand/wrist movements
  • Heavy lifting or gripping
  • Hormonal changes (common after pregnancy)
  • Certain underlying inflammatory conditions

You may experience:

  • Pain or tenderness at the base of the thumb
  • Swelling or a visible lump over the wrist
  • Difficulty twisting or lifting objects
  • Pain when turning keys, picking up a kettle, or wringing out cloths

When Is Surgery Needed?

Most patients start with non-surgical treatments, including:

  • Wrist/thumb splinting
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Activity modification and rest
  • Physiotherapy or occupational therapy

If your symptoms persist for more than 2–3 months despite these treatments, or if the pain severely limits your hand function, surgery may be the best next step.

The Surgical Procedure: De Quervain’s Release

At Sozo, surgery for De Quervain’s is a straightforward outpatient procedure performed under local anaesthetic — meaning you stay awake, but the area is completely numb. What to expect:

  • A small incision is made over the thumb-side wrist
  • The tight sheath (compartment) around the inflamed tendons is gently opened
  • This relieves pressure and allows the tendons to glide freely again
  • The skin is closed with dissolvable or removable sutures
  • A light dressing is applied — no cast required

Procedure time: around 20–30 minutes
You go home the same day

The Risks of Surgery

This is a very safe and well-tolerated procedure, but as with any surgery, potential risks include:

  • Scar sensitivity or thickening
  • Infection (very rare)
  • Incomplete release (even rarer, but treatable)
  • Nerve irritation or numbness (usually temporary)

Our clean-air theatre environment, expert technique, and gentle tissue handling help reduce these risks.

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What Results can I expect?

Most patients experience:

  • Significant reduction or complete resolution of wrist pain
  • Return to normal hand function within 1–3 weeks
  • A small, neat scar on the wrist crease (barely visible after healing)
  • Low risk of recurrence

In expert hands, this is a highly successful and life-improving procedure.

Ready to Stop Living with Wrist Pain?

If wrist and thumb pain is holding you back — from work, lifting your child, or simply enjoying daily life — we’re here to help. Book your consultation today.

man holding left wrist obviously in pain