Dr. Jayakrishnan Kurup, a hand and wrist specialist in Abu Dhabi, explains that De Quervain’s affects two tendons that pass through a narrow compartment on the thumb side of the wrist. When these tendons and their surrounding sheath become irritated or swollen, movement can become painful.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain at the base of the thumb or thumb side of the wrist
- Tenderness and swelling
- Pain while gripping, pinching or lifting
- Difficulty moving the thumb and wrist
- Pain extending into the forearm
- Occasional catching or snapping sensations
Why Does De Quervain’s Syndrome Happen?
De Quervain’s syndrome is often associated with repetitive thumb and wrist movements. It is also seen during pregnancy and after childbirth, which is why it is sometimes informally called “mother’s wrist” or “mommy thumb.”
Activities such as carrying a baby, repetitive work, cooking, gardening, sports or frequent hand use may aggravate the symptoms.
Does De Quervain’s Need Surgery?
Usually, surgery is not the first treatment.
Depending on the severity of symptoms, treatment may include activity modification, a thumb-and-wrist splint, cold packs, appropriate medication, hand therapy or a corticosteroid injection.
AAOS notes that many patients improve with nonsurgical treatment, while surgical release may be considered when significant symptoms continue despite appropriate conservative management.
Hand & Wrist Specialist in Abu Dhabi
Dr. Jayakrishnan Kurup is a Specialist Orthopedic Surgeon with expertise in Hand & Upper-Limb Surgery at Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi.
His advanced training includes:
- European Diploma in Hand Surgery
- Fellowship in Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery – National University Hospital, Singapore
- Hand & Upper-Limb Fellowship – Wrightington Hospital, United Kingdom
His practice covers hand and wrist injuries, tendon disorders, nerve problems, fractures, sports injuries, wrist arthroscopy, microsurgery and reconstructive hand surgery.
For patients searching for a best hand surgeon in Abu Dhabi, wrist specialist near me, thumb pain doctor, De Quervain specialist or orthopedic hand surgeon, an accurate examination can identify the cause of pain and determine whether simple conservative treatment or further intervention is required.
Early Diagnosis Can Make Everyday Activities Easier
Persistent pain on the thumb side of your wrist should not simply be ignored, especially when it begins interfering with lifting, gripping, work, childcare or everyday hand movements.
The important message is simple:
De Quervain’s syndrome is usually treatable, and most patients do not start with surgery.
Getting the correct diagnosis is the first step toward returning to comfortable hand and wrist function.
Book an Appointment with Dr. Jayakrishnan Kurup
If you are searching for the best hand surgeon in Abu Dhabi, top wrist specialist near you, carpal tunnel doctor, microsurgery specialist, nerve repair surgeon or upper-limb orthopedic surgeon, consult Dr. Jayakrishnan Kurup for specialist hand and wrist evaluation.
📞 Call Burjeel Hospital: 80055
📧 Email Dr. Jayakrishnan Kurup
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📍 Burjeel Hospital
Al Najdah Street, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.