De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
Relief for Thumb and Wrist Pain
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing inflammation that makes gripping, pinching, and twisting movements difficult. It is one of the more common overuse injuries seen in physiotherapy, particularly in new parents, people with hand-intensive work, and those who have recently increased their activity levels. With targeted physiotherapy, it responds well to treatment.
What Causes De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
- Repetitive gripping and pinching motions with your thumb
- New parenthood — lifting and supporting your baby repeatedly
- Hormonal changes that affect tendon flexibility and strength
- Racquet sports or throwing activities that strain the tendons
- Sudden increase in activity or unfamiliar repetitive tasks
Sometimes people confuse De Quervain’s with carpal tunnel syndrome, but the pain location and cause are quite different. Our physios will diagnose exactly what’s going on so you get the right treatment.
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Our Treatment for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
At True Physio, we identify the specific movements and load patterns driving your symptoms, then build a treatment plan around them. Our physiotherapy approach combines manual techniques with a structured strengthening plan tailored to your lifestyle and goals.
- Manual therapy and soft tissue work to reduce inflammation and restore movement
- Progressive strengthening exercises to rebuild tendon resilience
- Splinting and taping advice to protect the tendons whilst they heal
- Ergonomic guidance to prevent the problem returning
- Advanced options like shockwave therapy and acupuncture for persistent cases
Most people see improvement within 4–6 weeks of consistent treatment, though stubborn cases may take a little longer.
“Had wrist tendon pain which completely stopped me from going to the gym since February. After around 8 weeks working with Tanya, I’m able to get back to the gym. Tanya was really helpful in providing useful exercises and massages which ultimately relieved my pain. Cannot recommend these guys enough, all staff are very welcoming and friendly.” AK – Blackburn
Expert Physiotherapy Team
All of our Physiotherapists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), which means that they fulfil the highest standards of practice required by law. They are also a part of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), demonstrating our commitment to delivering outstanding expertise.
Initial Assessment
At your initial assessment at True Physio, we will find out where your pain comes from and what your goal is before forming a plan to help you achieve that. Our clinicians will take the time to understand your condition, do a detailed assessment, and explain to you the nature of the problem you have. Treatment plans are created with your lifestyle in mind.
Book an appointment at your nearest True Physio clinic and let’s get your De Quervain’s sorted.
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