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Kliniken Day Surgery Centre in Harrogate, North Yorkshire

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Kliniken

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Treatment in the UK

Also known as: De Quervain’s syndrome, De Quervain’s synovitis, De Quervain’s tenosynovitis surgery

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. When these tendons become inflamed, they struggle to move smoothly through a narrow tunnel, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty moving your thumb and wrist. This condition can develop gradually or suddenly, often linked to repetitive hand movements or overuse.

  • Tailored treatment plan
  • Specialist face and neck surgeon
  • Done under local anaesthetic
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OVERVIEW

How much does De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Decompression cost?

Surgical Time

30 mins

Cost

From £2,150

Day Case

Yes

Anaesthetic

Local anaesthetic

Time off work

2 week

Time before showering

10 days

Do You Have Wrist Pain That Won’t Go Away?

You may have noticed pain and swelling around your thumb and wrist, making everyday tasks like gripping, lifting, or even texting uncomfortable. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis can make simple movements feel unbearable, stopping you from working, exercising, or enjoying time with family. You might even feel a catching or snapping sensation when you move your thumb. Left untreated, the pain can worsen, limiting your ability to use your hand properly. But the good news is that treatment can help you regain full movement and comfort, allowing you to get back to doing what you love.

What Is the Major Cause of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?

The primary cause of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is repetitive hand and wrist movements, often linked to activities that require gripping, pinching, or lifting. Common causes include:

  • Frequent texting or smartphone use
  • Lifting young children repeatedly
  • Playing musical instruments
  • Sports that involve wrist action (golf, tennis, rowing)
  • Workplace tasks such as typing or using tools

    Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or menopause, can also increase the risk of developing this condition.

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    Can De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Heal on Its Own?

    In mild cases, De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis can improve with rest and activity modification. However, if you continue using your hand in the same way, the inflammation can persist or even worsen. Many people find that their symptoms return once they start using their wrist again. Without proper treatment, the condition may become more severe, making it harder to perform daily activities. Seeking early treatment can prevent long-term discomfort and help you recover faster.

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    How Long Does Wrist Tenosynovitis Take to Heal?

    Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment used. With early intervention, symptoms may improve within a few weeks using non-surgical treatments. However, if the condition has been present for months, healing may take longer. In some cases, surgical treatment provides the most effective and lasting relief, allowing you to regain full use of your hand without ongoing pain.

    WHY US

    Why Choose Kliniken for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Decompression Surgery

    Consultations

    Consultations

    Generous hour long consultations to discuss the best solution.

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    Simple Process

    Simple Process

    A quick discussion over the phone, send over photos, questions and discussion, visit the clinic and treatment can be in same day.

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    Great Location

    Great Location

    Country side and clean air helps you rest and recuperate.

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    Personal Touch

    Personal Touch

    Same clinician assigned to your from start to finish of your treatment.

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    Attentive Care Plan

    Attentive Care Plan

    Personalised and attentive care throughout the surgery.

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    Privacy & Discretion

    Privacy & Discretion

    Privacy and discretion of our clients is paramount.

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    Locations

    We now offer surgery at multiple locations. Get your surgery done at a clinic close to you. Wherever you go we offer the same level of care and treatment.​

    Address: The Pine, Oakwood Park Business Centre, Fountains Road Harrogate HG3 3BF

    Parking: Yes

    Day Case: Yes

    Address: 15, Huddersfield Road, Elland HX5 9BA

    Parking: Yes

    Day Case: Yes

    Address: 104 Throne Road Doncaster DN2 5BJ

    Parking: Yes

    Day Case: Yes

    Alternative Treatments for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

    If you’re suffering from persistent pain, there are several treatment options available. The right approach depends on how severe your symptoms are and how much they interfere with your daily activities.

    Rest and Activity Modification

    Avoiding repetitive movements and giving your wrist time to heal can help mild cases improve. However, for many people, this is not practical as daily tasks require wrist movement.

    Splinting

    A wrist splint can keep your thumb and wrist in a neutral position, reducing strain on the inflamed tendons. While this can provide temporary relief, it does not always address the underlying problem.

    Anti-Inflammatory Medications

    Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help reduce swelling and discomfort. However, these only provide short-term relief and do not treat the root cause of the condition.

    Corticosteroid Injections

    A steroid injection into the affected area can significantly reduce inflammation and pain. Many patients experience relief after one or two injections, but symptoms can return if the underlying issue is not addressed.

    Surgery – A Permanent Solution

    For severe or persistent cases, a minor surgical procedure can provide long-lasting relief. This involves releasing the tight sheath around the affected tendons, allowing them to glide smoothly again. The procedure is quick, performed under local anaesthetic, and has a high success rate. Most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks. If you’ve been struggling with ongoing pain, this option could help you regain full function without limitations.

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    WHO WE ARE

    Our UK trained and qualified surgeons are here to help

    Mr. Mallappa Kolar

    Consultant Plastic Surgeon (Head & Neck Surgery)
    MBChB, BSc, MRCS Eng, MD, PhD, FRCS(Plast)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Find answers to our frequently asked questions

    Patients can typically have De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Decompression performed and go home the same day.

    Patients have the procedure under local anaesthetic.  

    An incision is made on the thumb side of the wrist over the swelling.

    This allows for the nerve giving sensation to the back of the hand to be moved aside, free the tunnel & so, allowing the tendon to move more easily.

    The skin is closed with non-dissolving stitches and the hand dressed to protect the wound, but free enough to use when absolutely needed.

    When patients come into the clinic, our UK-trained plastic surgeon makes a full assessment of the patient.

    This includes any relevant history, including reasons for surgery and a thorough examination including both hands. 

    Part of this process is explaining to the patients what can be done, why, and what to expect, based on each patients’ anatomy and suitability for surgery.

    Patients who may have pain at the base of thumb near the level of the wrist on the back of the hand, with tenderness over the area and in some cases, swelling over that area and noticeable clicking associated. 

    They may have any one or a number of these symptoms to suggest De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.

    The swelling will have been removed as a result of surgery, so the area will be flatter than before.  

    However, there will be a degree of swelling due to the operating and the local anaesthetic injection which will settle.

    Immediately after surgery, each patient is seen by the senior physiotherapist who specialises in hand surgery patients, where they are given advice for what to look out for, what to expect and what can be done including exercise to help with rehabilitation. 

    Patients can contact their team if they have any questions.

    Patients are seen 10 days after surgery when the wounds are checked and stitches removed when the same physiotherapist will go through the exercises to help with rehabilitation after surgery.

    For some patients, the problems may settle after rest. If this is not enough, patients may have used splints supplied by the GP or physiotherapists. 

    They may have had steroid injections that can help in a large number of cases. The steroid injection may be done with or without ultrasound guidance.

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    ★★★★★ 5/5
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    Why Choose Treatment Now?

    Ignoring De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis can lead to worsening symptoms, making daily activities even more difficult. Early intervention can save you months of discomfort and frustration. Whether you opt for non-surgical treatment or a long-term surgical solution, getting the right care now can help you regain pain-free movement in your wrist and thumb. If you’re struggling with wrist pain, book a consultation today to explore your best treatment options. Relief is closer than you think.

    Call Us: 01423 206388
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