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De Quervain Tendon Release is a surgical procedure that can treat De Quervain Syndrome and ultimately reduce symptoms. The Regional Hand Center has two offices—both centers have a team of experienced doctors and a practice that specializes in hand surgery.
What Exactly is De Quervain Syndrome?
De Quervain Syndrome is a condition that primarily impacts the thumb’s tendons in the hand. Tendons, which are strong, sinewy tissues, aid in the movement of your hands. They pass through the “tunnel” in the wrist and serve as a mechanism between the muscles and bones. If the tunnel becomes too narrow or the tendons too enlarged, your fingers can really hurt, and it can be difficult to move or grasp with your hand.
Why Would I Need De Quervain Release?
Non-surgical treatment options for De Quervain Syndrome include a fitness regime of activities, dietary modifications, and medications. However, your orthopedic hand specialist may advise surgery if you have severe symptoms or if non-surgical treatments are unsuccessful at relieving pain. Surgery may be the only answer to an improved quality of life and a decrease in pain. To decide the best course of action for your particular case, speaking with a skilled orthopedic hand surgeon is crucial.
What Can I Expect From De Quervain Release?
Usually, a local anesthetic is used to perform a De Quervain Release and numb the hand. Your orthopedic hand surgeon will start with a small incision close to the wrist and base of the thumb. Your orthopedic surgeon will then open up any swollen tissues affecting the tendons. After the procedure, the wound will be stiff, but over the course of recovery, this procedure will allow the tendon to move freely and painlessly.
De Quervain Release Aftercare
As the anesthetic wears off, you can anticipate swelling and soreness after your procedure. A splint will be fitted to your wrist as an extra barrier of protection during the early stages of recovery. Your aftercare instructions should be followed to the letter and will include everything you need to know from how to take prescribed medications and care for the incision site—they will also let you know how long you need to keep your splint on. While there is a little downtime, the rest required is much shorter than other surgical procedures, so you can usually begin work within two days. If your job requires repetitive hand motions like typing, grasping, or twisting, you should prepare to take more time off. Your orthopedic hand specialist will advise physical therapy to help you regain strength in the area while your hand continues to heal over the course of several weeks.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re experiencing symptoms of De Quervain Syndrome or have been recommended for surgery by your orthopedic hand specialist, schedule a consultation with The Regional Hand Center today! Our team of orthopedic hand surgeons at Regional Hand Center can assist you in determining the best treatments for De Quervain Syndrome. You can contact their Fresno office by calling (559) 435-8326 or their Visalia office by calling (559) 625-4111. Alternatively, you can schedule a consultation on their website’s contact page.
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