Where in Dubai
Dr. Subhash Ushakoyala, Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon, sees patients with De Quervain's tenosynovitis at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira, Dubai. He speaks English, Hindi and Telugu. Before the visit, note which tasks bring on the pain, for example lifting a baby, using a phone, typing or using tools, and tell his nurse if you are pregnant or have recently had a baby.
What is de Quervain's tenosynovitis?
Two tendons that move the thumb run side by side through a narrow tunnel on the thumb side of the wrist. In De Quervain's tenosynovitis, these tendons become irritated and their covering thickens, so they no longer glide freely. The result is pain at the base of the thumb and the side of the wrist, worse when you grip, pinch, twist the wrist or lift. There may be swelling, and the thumb can catch or snap as it moves. It is more common in women, in people in their 40s and 50s, during pregnancy and in the weeks after having a baby, and with repeated thumb and wrist movements.
Common signs
- Pain on the thumb side of the wrist that is worse when gripping or lifting.
- Pain that came on after a new baby, from lifting and holding the child.
- Swelling or a small lump at the base of the thumb.
- A catching or snapping feeling when you move the thumb.
- Pain that spreads up the forearm and makes it hard to move the thumb or wrist.
How Dr. Subhash approaches it
Dr. Subhash lists De Quervain's tenosynovitis treatment among the hand problems he treats. He asks about your work, home tasks and any recent pregnancy, then feels along the thumb side of the wrist. A simple thumb-and-wrist stretch test usually shows the problem. He arranges an X-ray or ultrasound only when another cause needs ruling out. He then explains the treatment that suits you and what to expect.
What to expect
Consultation
He asks when the pain started, which movements set it off, and about your work and home tasks.
Examination
He feels for tenderness and swelling and does a simple test: you tuck the thumb into the palm and bend the wrist towards the little finger.
Easing the strain
Cutting down on the movements that hurt, ice, and anti-inflammatory gels or tablets where suitable.
Splint
A thumb splint that keeps the wrist straight can ease the pain, especially at night.
If it does not settle
If it does not settle, he explains the next options and what each involves.
Review
He checks your progress and changes the plan if the pain is not easing.
Getting better
Every patient is different. These are typical milestones, not a promise; your own plan comes from your consultation.
- Many people improve with rest from the painful movements and a splint.
- Many people get relief after a steroid injection.
- Most people who need an operation improve afterwards, and normal hand use returns as comfort and strength come back.
Risks to know about
- People with diabetes may respond less well to injections and have a higher chance of wound problems after surgery.
When to book a visit
Book a visit if wrist or thumb pain stops you doing normal tasks, or has not improved after two weeks of home care. Book sooner if you have tingling or loss of feeling in the hand, or you have diabetes. Go to emergency care straight away if, after an injury, you heard a snap, cannot move the thumb or hold things, the thumb has changed shape or colour, or you have lost feeling in the hand.
Where to book
Dr. Subhash sees patients at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira, in north-east Dubai. The clinic is at Shop No. 4, next to the Grand Excelsior Hotel.
Grand Infinity Medical Center
Shop No. 4, next to Grand Excelsior Hotel, Al Muteena, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
DirectionsCall +971 58 599 7460WhatsApp
Questions patients ask
Should I keep wearing a wrist support while I work?
A thumb splint can help, especially at night or during the tasks that hurt. Bring it to your visit so he can check it holds the thumb and wrist in the right position.
Why does my wrist hurt after having a baby?
Lifting and holding a baby puts repeated strain on the thumb side of the wrist. De Quervain's often starts within a few weeks of the birth. It usually settles with rest, a splint and changing how you lift.
Can phone use or typing cause it?
Repeated thumb and wrist movements, such as texting, typing and lifting, can make it worse. Taking breaks and changing how you hold the phone can help.
Is it arthritis?
No, it is a problem with the tendons, not the joint. Arthritis at the base of the thumb can cause pain in a similar place, so an examination is needed to tell them apart.
Book an appointment
His nurse answers the phone and WhatsApp.