Quervain's syndrome

What is De Quervain’s syndrome

De De Quervain’s syndrome is a condition in which two tendons on the thumb side of the wrist become irritated. These tendons run through a narrow tunnel (the tendon sheath) and allow you to extend your thumb and move it away from your hand.

When these tendons are overloaded too often or for too long, friction develops inside the tendon sheath. The tendons may swell, reducing space and making movement painful. Because these tendons are involved in many everyday activities, symptoms are often noticed quickly.

With De Quervain’s syndrome, pain is usually located:

• just below the thumb
• on the outer side of the wrist
• sometimes radiating toward the forearm

Causes of De Quervain’s syndrome

The cause of De Quervain’s syndrome is rarely a single event. In most cases, it develops due to repetitive or prolonged strain, where the tendons do not get enough time to recover.

Common causes include:

• repetitive pinching and gripping
• prolonged use of a mouse, phone, or tablet
• lifting and carrying, for example young children
• sports that heavily load the wrist and thumb
• insufficient recovery during busy periods

With De Quervain’s syndrome, people often ignore early warning signs. The pain starts mildly but gradually increases. This can lead to unconscious compensation, which may further increase strain.

Symptoms of De Quervain’s syndrome

Symptoms usually develop gradually but can also appear suddenly. They are most noticeable during movements that involve both the thumb and wrist.

Common symptoms include:

• pain on the thumb side of the wrist
• pain when gripping, lifting, or twisting
• swelling or tenderness around the tendons
• loss of strength in the hand and thumb
• difficulty with everyday activities

Some people experience pain mainly during activity, while others feel discomfort even at rest. A key sign is that symptoms quickly return once normal hand use is resumed.

Does a De Quervain’s brace help

A De Quervain’s brace can provide temporary support. The brace limits movement of the thumb and wrist, allowing the irritated tendons to rest.

A brace may help:

• during activities that cannot be avoided
• to temporarily reduce symptoms
• as protection during heavier tasks

A brace is a supportive tool, not a cure. Without targeted training and gradual load progression, the tendon remains vulnerable and symptoms may return once support is reduced.

Treatment for De Quervain’s syndrome

Effective treatment for De Quervain’s syndrome focuses on restoring load tolerance, not just reducing pain. Rest alone is often insufficient. The tendons need to relearn how to tolerate load.

At De Fysio Man, we look beyond the painful area itself. We assess:

• the load capacity of your wrist and thumb
• how your hand is used at work and in daily life
• strength, control, and coordination
• recovery patterns and overuse

Treatment may include:

• targeted exercises for the thumb, wrist, and forearm
• controlled and gradual load progression
• practical advice to manage strain more effectively
• mobilisation techniques if structures are stiff
• taping or temporary support when needed

The goal is for you to use your hand confidently again, without fear of pain or recurrence.

Why symptoms often return

With De Quervain’s syndrome, pain may decrease before the tendons have fully recovered their load capacity. People often return too quickly to previous activities, causing renewed irritation.

Without proper progression:

• the tendon remains vulnerable
• irritation returns quickly
• recovery becomes increasingly difficult

This is why guidance, timing, and a structured build-up are essential for long-term recovery.