Introduction:
De Quervain’s Syndrome is a painful condition prevalent among elders, characterized by inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Statistics from the National Institutes of Health reveal that approximately 10% of individuals over 65 are affected. Despite its common occurrence in older adults, De Quervain’s Syndrome often goes undiagnosed and untreated.
This blog, will explore the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and tailored treatment options for elders grappling with this overlooked wrist condition. We aim to raise awareness and improve management strategies like physiotherapy for seniors.
Symptoms of De Quervain’s Syndrome:
- Pain and Tenderness: Individuals with De Quervain’s Syndrome often experience pain and tenderness along the thumb side of the wrist, which may worsen with thumb and wrist movement or grasping objects.
- Swelling and Inflammation: Warmth and redness in the affected area may accompany swelling and inflammation at the base of the thumb or along the wrist.
- Difficulty with Thumb Movement:Because inflamed tendons restrict thumb movement, actions like pinching, grasping, or making a fist may be difficult and painful.
Causes of De Quervain’s Syndrome:
- Repetitive Movements: Activities that involve repetitive thumb and wrist movements, such as typing, texting, gardening, or playing musical instruments, can strain the tendons and contribute to the development of De Quervain’s Syndrome.
- Overuse or Strain: Overuse or strain of the wrist and thumb, especially in awkward or forceful positions, can lead to irritation and inflammation of the tendons, increasing the risk of developing this condition.
- Anatomical Factors: Certain anatomical factors, such as having a thicker or narrower synovial sheath, may predispose individuals to De Quervain’s Syndrome.
Diagnosis of De Quervain’s Syndrome:
- Physical Examination: A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination to assess the range of motion of the thumb and wrist and identify areas of tenderness and swelling.
- Finkelstein Test: The Finkelstein test, in which the thumb is tucked into the palm and the wrist is bent towards the little finger, may elicit pain along the thumb side of the wrist, indicating De Quervain’s Syndrome.
- Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to visualize the structures of the wrist and confirm the diagnosis of De Quervain’s Syndrome.
Treatment Options for De Quervain’s Syndrome:
- Rest and Immobilization: Resting the affected thumb and wrist and avoiding activities exacerbating symptoms can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Immobilization with a splint or brace may be recommended to rest the affected area.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the inflamed area for short periods can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling associated with De Quervain’s Syndrome.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen may be prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Physiotherapy for seniors is crucial for managing this condition. A physical therapist can provide exercises and stretches to improve thumb and wrist mobility, strengthen the surrounding muscles, and promote De Quervain’s Syndrome recovery.
- Corticosteroid Injections: In cases of severe or persistent symptoms, corticosteroid injections into the affected tendon sheath can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with De Quervain’s Syndrome.
- Surgery: In rare cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention may be considered to release the constricted tendon sheath and relieve pressure on the tendons.
Restoring Mobility: KITES’ Expert Physiotherapy for Seniors Affected by De Quervain’s Syndrome
KITES offers specialized physiotherapy for seniors and rehabilitation services tailored to individuals grappling with De Quervain’s Syndrome. KITES’ expert physiotherapists provide personalized treatment plans to alleviate pain, improve range of motion, and restore functionality in the affected wrist and thumb. Through techniques like manual therapy and therapeutic exercises, we address the root causes of the syndrome while promoting healing and rehabilitation. With physiotherapy for seniors’ early intervention and comprehensive care at centre or at home services, elders can regain control over their thumb and wrist function, enhancing their quality of life.
Conclusion
With a successful record of delivering geriatric care to over 5,400 families and providing more than 90,000 nursing days, we are dedicated to ensuring top-quality care. Our facilities include over 160 assisted care beds and 340 specialized care beds across three cities. Whether physiotherapy for seniors in our Geriatric Care Centres or physiotherapy for seniors at home, we prioritize delivering exceptional care to seniors in need.
Connect with us and talk to our expert for guidance, or write to us at hello@kitesseniorcare.com., or visit the KITES senior care centre nearby.