Thumb tendonitis

Tendonitis of the thumb is a reaction of the tendon to overuse. The tendon becomes damaged and irritated. As a result of this irritation, the tendon swells, and moving the thumb becomes more difficult and painful.

What causes tendonitis of the thumb?

Tendonitis of the thumb often develops due to overuse of the muscles around the thumb. The emerging technology around smartphones is a rapidly increasing risk for hand injuries. In particular, the thumb is vulnerable to overuse due to repetitive movements.

Other possible causes of tendonitis of the thumb are underlying conditions such as De Quervain's disease or rheumatism.

What are the symptoms of tendonitis of the thumb?

With tendonitis of the thumb, pain on the thumb side of the hand is the most common symptom. In addition, the base of the thumb may appear red and/or swollen. Due to this swelling, the thumb may feel warm, and movement is often limited.

Using the thumb will be more difficult in the case of tendonitis. Even holding a pen between the thumb and index finger can be experienced as painful.

How is the diagnosis of tendonitis of the thumb made?

Due to the characteristic signs, tendonitis of the thumb is, in most cases, easy to recognize by the family doctor or physiotherapist. A physical examination, possibly supplemented with specific tests, will suffice to establish tendonitis.

In case of doubt, the family doctor may consider imaging. In this case, an ultrasound will provide sufficient additional information for the diagnosis of tendonitis of the thumb.

How is tendonitis of the thumb treated?

Depending on the severity and duration of the inflammation and the medical history, a conservative (non-surgical) treatment will initially be chosen.

It is of course important to reduce the load on the thumb tendons where possible; for this, it may be wise to wear a thumb splint.

It is important to start by taking sufficient rest and reducing movements that provoke the inflammation. That reduces the signs of inflammation. After that, it is important to strengthen the thumb muscles again. To train this gradually, it is recommended to do this under the guidance of a physiotherapist.