Physical Therapy Nest

Diagnosis of DQT 

Diagnosis usually includes:

• Medical history review (occupation, repetitive activities, recent injury).

• Physical exam focusing on pain with thumb movement.

• Finkelstein’s test: bending the thumb into the palm and ulnar-deviating the wrist often reproduces pain.

• Imaging is rarely needed but ultrasound or MRI may rule out other wrist conditions.

Treatment for DQT

Physical therapy is highly effective in relieving pain and restoring function. Treatment may include:

• Manual therapy to reduce tension in the thumb and wrist tendons

• Splinting or bracing to rest the thumb and wrist in neutral position

• Range of motion and stretching exercises for the thumb and wrist

• Strengthening exercises for the hand, wrist, and forearm once pain decreases

• Pain management with ice, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation

• Education on activity modification and ergonomic strategies
  In severe or persistent cases, injections or surgery may be required, with PT critical to recovery afterward.

Symptoms of DQT

Typical signs of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis include:

• Pain and tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist

• Swelling near the base of the thumb

• Pain that worsens with gripping, pinching, or twisting (like opening jars)

• Difficulty moving the thumb and wrist smoothly

• A catching or snapping sensation with thumb motion in some cases

• Weakness when lifting objects with the thumb and wrist

Prevention of DQT

To reduce the risk of developing or worsening De Quervain’s tenosynovitis:

• Take frequent breaks from repetitive wrist or thumb motions

• Use ergonomic grips or adaptive tools to reduce strain

• Perform regular hand, wrist, and thumb stretches

• Strengthen wrist and hand muscles for better tendon support

• Address early thumb or wrist pain before it becomes chronic