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DE- QUERVAIN SYNDROME
What is De- Quervain Syndrome?
It appears without obvious cause in many cases. Mothers of small babies seem particularly prone to it, but whether this is due to hormonal changes after pregnancy or due to lifting the baby repeatedly is not known. There is little evidence that it is caused by work activities, but the pain can certainly be aggravated by hand use at work, at home, in the garden or at sport.
How is it treated?
Using a wrist/thumb splint, which can often be obtained from a sports shop or a physiotherapist. It needs to immobilize the thumb as well as the wrist.
Surgical decompression of the tendon tunnel.
What will happen after I am discharged?
Pain - Should be minimal after the surgery but if you are in pain, take your normal painkiller, such as Paracetamol, following the dosage instructions on the pack. The site of the operation can be tender for a few weeks afterwards.
Driving?
You must not drive whilst you have stitches in your wound.
Once they have been removed, you can resume driving as soon as you are comfortable.
Work
You may need a certificate for up to 3 weeks depending on your job, this will be provided by the Surgeon or your GP.
Wound Care
You will have a small sticking plaster on your wound. On top of this will be a wool bandage and a crepe bandage. We will also provide a broad arm sling which will support your hand to prevent swelling and bleeding. You do not need to wear the sling in bed, or whilst
sitting down, as long as your arm is well propped up. You can remove the sling, wool and crepe bandages 48 hours after your surgery. We will give you a spare sticking plaster and if your plaster is soiled after you remove both bandages, you can replace it.
Please keep your wound dry You will need to make an appointment at your own G.P. practice to have your stitches removed, 12-14 days after surgery. Once you have had your stitches removed, please start firm massage with unscented moisturising cream two/three times a day for two weeks, this will soften the wound and aid healing.