De Quervain Disease
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
De Quervain's disease is inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. Tendons are thick strands of tissue that connect muscles to bones.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Splint or brace:
These devices will help decrease pain, limit movement, and protect your wrist so that it can heal. Make sure your device is comfortable. If it is too tight, your fingers may feel numb or tingly. Do not push or lean on your device because it can break.
Physical or occupational therapy:
You may need to see a physical or occupational therapist to teach you special exercises. These exercises help improve movement and decrease pain. They also help improve strength and decrease your risk for loss of function. Therapists will help you make changes to your daily activities to decrease stress and pressure on the tendons.
Rest:
Rest your injured thumb or wrist. Avoid twisting, grasping, or gripping movements. Ask when you can return to your normal activities.
Medicines:
- NSAIDs: These medicines decrease swelling, pain, and fever. They are available without a doctor's order. Ask which medicine is right for you, and how much to take. Take as directed. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems if not taken correctly.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- Your splint or brace is too tight and you cannot loosen it.
- You have a fever.
- Your pain and swelling get worse or do not go away.
- Your cannot grasp objects because of the pain and swelling.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Seek care immediately if:
- You cannot move your thumb or wrist.
- Your fingers feel numb, tingly, cool to the touch, or look blue or pale.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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