De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that affects the part of your wrist where your thumb is. It impacts the tendons, which help you grip things, clench your hand or use a pencil, for example. If you have the condition, you’ll usually experience pain when you turn your wrist, make a fist shape or grab something tightly. You might also have:

Pain or swelling around the base of your thumb
Difficulty moving your wrist, particularly your thumb, when trying to grab or pinch something
A sensation that your thumb gets stuck when you move it

The condition is often made worse by repetitive activities you use your hand or wrist for, like gardening, writing or playing sports like tennis or golf.

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Diagnosis

If you’re experiencing pain in your wrist or thumb and it impacts your day-to-day life, you can book an initial consultation with Mr Sarker at his clinics in Essex or central London. It’s important to get the condition treated, as it could spread further into the thumb or even into your forearm.

During your initial consultation, Mr Sarker will talk to you about any pain you’re experiencing and carry out some tests to help understand what’s going on. He uses a few clinical tests including the Finkelstein test, which is where he’ll bend your thumb and fingers slightly to see if there’s any pain.

Once he’s diagnosed the condition, Mr Sarker will talk you through the treatment options that might be suitable.

Treatment

The treatment you have depends on your individual needs. The options are:

Hand therapy and splinting

The first treatment option Mr Sarker might recommend is wearing a splint to stop you using your thumb and wrist. A splint keeps your thumb straight to help you relax your tendons. You might also need hand therapy, which involves doing specific exercises to help you strengthen your muscles and reduce pain.

Ultrasound-guided injections

If wearing a splint isn’t successful, Mr Sarker may recommend an ultrasound-guided injection. This will treat any inflammation in your tendons and provide pain relief. Because the needle is guided by ultrasound, it can be injected precisely into the affected area.

Surgical treatment

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis doesn’t usually need surgery, but it might help in severe cases. Mr Sarker can perform surgery to help release the pressure on your tendons and this is done under a regional anaesthetic, so you can go home the same day. If surgery is needed, Mr Sarker will explain the process to you in detail and will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m not sure if I have De Quervain’s tenosynovitis; what should I do?

If you have any pain in your hand or wrist, book an initial consultation with Mr Sarker for further advice. The condition can be commonly misdiagnosed, so seeking help from a specialist will ensure you’re getting the right treatment.

Can I use my private medical insurance?

Yes, Mr Sarker is approved by all major medical insurance providers and these treatments are well recognised. You’ll need to make sure your particular insurer provides you with authorisation at each stage of your journey.

Can I pay for my own treatment?

Yes, Mr Sarker is happy to see patients on a self-pay basis. If you’re looking for prompt treatment from an expert hand and wrist consultant, you can book an appointment with Mr Sarker by getting in touch directly.

You’ll be made aware of all of the prices for anything you need well ahead of having them, so you can make the right decision for you.

How much is a consultation with Mr Sarker?

An initial consultation is £250 for self-pay patients, and a follow-up consultation is £175.

Any diagnostics or treatment you need will depend on the hospital you are seen at. Mr Sarker and the hospital team will make any prices clear to you before you commit to any scans, tests or treatments.

Do I need a referral letter to see Mr Sarker?

Mr Sarker is happy to see you without a referral letter, but if you’re using your insurance, you should check with them as they may request that you get one.