What Is De Quervain's?
De Quervain's tenosynovitis is inflammation of the tendon sheath on the thumb side of the wrist. It causes pain and tenderness near the base of the thumb that worsens with gripping, lifting or twisting the wrist. It is common in new mothers (from repeatedly lifting a baby), hence 'mummy's wrist', and in people with repetitive thumb use.
A positive 'Finkelstein test' (pain when the thumb is tucked into the fist and the wrist bent towards the little finger) supports the diagnosis.
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Thumb spica splint: Rests the tendons and reduces pain.
- Activity modification: Adjusting lifting technique and thumb-intensive tasks.
- Corticosteroid injection: Highly effective first-line treatment — many cases resolve with one injection.
- Hand therapy: Stretching and strengthening once pain settles.
Surgery
If splinting and injections don't resolve symptoms, a short release procedure opens the tight tendon sheath to relieve pressure. It is a day-surgery procedure, usually under local anaesthesia, with reliable results.
Recovery
- After injection: Relief over several days; protect the wrist initially.
- After surgery: Light use early; stitches out around day 10–14; full comfortable use over a few weeks with therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Browse hand surgeons →A steroid injection typically costs S$150–S$400 plus consultation. Surgical release at a private clinic costs roughly S$3,000–S$6,000+. Where symptomatic, treatment is usually Medisave-claimable up to limits.
Mild cases, especially post-pregnancy, may settle with splinting and reduced thumb strain. Persistent cases respond very well to a corticosteroid injection; surgery is reserved for cases that don't resolve.
Yes — corticosteroid injection is a highly effective first-line treatment, with many cases resolving after one injection. Breastfeeding mothers should discuss timing and safety with their doctor.
De Quervain's causes pain on the thumb side of the wrist from tendon inflammation. Carpal tunnel syndrome causes numbness and tingling in the fingers from nerve compression — different cause, different treatment.
General information only — not medical advice. Always verify a doctor’s SMC registration and discuss your individual circumstances with a qualified specialist.