Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Severe Pain In The Thumb And Elbow. What Is The Treatment?
Hi i have had severe pain in the base of my thumb and wrist on my right hand, everytime i catch my thumb and it moves (cant move it myself) it causes agonising pain which shoots up my arm to my elbow, have been physio but too swollen after 3 months of being like it and so have been told to go back in 4 weeks, the pain is so severe and getting worse that i am beginning to refuse to use that arm and its becoming harder and harder to look after my 18 month old son and 3 month old son...... do you know what this is? Is there anything i can do to ease the pain? It does also click ALOT which leaves me in tears andi then have to click it again so it feels like its back in place again......
Tue, 28 May 2013
Dear Madam/Sir
You are describing what is called the "De Quervain's Tenosynovitis" . The typical examination to exacerbate the pain is "catch the thumb in palm and move".
It is an inflammation of the extensor tendons of the thumb.
the treatment in ascending order is
1. Splint in comfortable position and pain medication
2. Steroid injections
3. Surgical release (the ultimate cure)
The differential diagnosis is CMC arthritis of the thumb (but I think you are too young for that since you have a 3 mo son)
Follow up with a hand surgeon and keep me posted.
Take care
Dr. TOA
You are describing what is called the "De Quervain's Tenosynovitis" . The typical examination to exacerbate the pain is "catch the thumb in palm and move".
It is an inflammation of the extensor tendons of the thumb.
the treatment in ascending order is
1. Splint in comfortable position and pain medication
2. Steroid injections
3. Surgical release (the ultimate cure)
The differential diagnosis is CMC arthritis of the thumb (but I think you are too young for that since you have a 3 mo son)
Follow up with a hand surgeon and keep me posted.
Take care
Dr. TOA
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Carpometacarpal arthritis
Loading Online Doctors....