Which specialist treats de quervain's tenosynovitis?

A hand and wrist orthopaedic specialist can diagnose de Quervain's tenosynovitis, with hand therapy supporting recovery and function. A primary care clinician can assess thumb or wrist pain and refer you.

De Quervain's tenosynovitis affects tendons that move the thumb as they pass along the thumb side of the wrist. Thumb pain or wrist pain may worsen with gripping, lifting, wringing, or caring for a child. Repetitive strain can contribute, but an examination is needed to distinguish it from joint, nerve, or ligament problems.

The specialist checks tenderness, swelling, thumb movement, grip, and the effect of specific wrist positions. Imaging is not always needed, but may help when the presentation is unusual.

Treatment commonly starts by changing painful hand use and supporting the thumb and wrist with a splint. Hand therapy can teach movement and loading adjustments. A clinician may discuss a cortisone injection when symptoms persist; de Quervain's release is reserved for selected cases that do not settle with non-surgical care.

Arrange review if pain persists, grip becomes difficult, or swelling limits thumb movement. Seek urgent care after an injury with marked deformity, severe swelling, loss of sensation, or a pale or cold hand.

Ask which tendon is involved, how long to use a splint, which movements to avoid, and when gentle exercises should begin. Ask how an injection or release would change the plan and what alternatives remain.