Narrative review of the evidence about the epidemiology, aetiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of De Quervain's Tenosynovitis : a physical therapy approach

Details

Supervisors

Aron, Vladimir ; Pitance, Laurent

Faculty

Faculté des sciences de la motricité

Degree label

Master [120] en sciences de la motricité, orientation générale, à finalité spécialisée: kinésithérapie musculo-squelettique

Abstract

The objective of this narrative review is to provide an up-to-date article covering the epidemiology, aetiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis through a physical therapist’s approach. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is caused by compression and friction of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis in the first dorsal compartment of the wrist. Multiple pathophysiological changes occur leading to pain, local tenderness, swelling and functional impact. Often described in pregnant and post-partum women, it can also be correlated with overuse of these specific tendons during daily activities. Diagnosis of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis can occur through multiple physical tests, the most known being Finkelstein’s test, as well as additional imaging techniques such as ultrasonography. The main criteria for diagnosis will be the clinical presentation of signs & symptoms, associated with specific tests. Treatment by a physical therapist will require a multimodal approach for optimal management. In addition to corticosteroid injections, not covered in this review, multiple options exist to target a variety of objectives: pain management, tissue healing, function recovery, etc.