http://www.handandwristinstitute.com/... Repetitive thumb and wrist use are very common nowadays, especially with the advent of smartphones and computer use. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, also known as blackberry thumb or mommy thumb, is a natural development from this trend. The abductor tendons of the thumb can become inflamed as they pass through their tunnel while moving the thumb, which in turn can cause pain and discomfort, hallmarks of this condition.

Bracing is the most common primary treatment of this condition, as well as the prescription of antiinflammatories to counteract the symptoms. In about 50% of cases, an injection of cortisone may improve patient symptoms, but should this prove ineffective, then a slightly more invasive procedure may be required. In a short procedure of about ten minutes, the patient is sedated and a single small incision is made along the inside of the wrist, where the thumb is, through which the tendon’s sheath is sliced open to relieve pressure and increase mobility and reduce pain. It is occasionally possible that the affected tendons pass through one or more sheathes and so when releasing them one must make sure to get all of them, or the surgery will be ineffective. Following the release, sutures are used to bring the skin back together.

After surgery, a splint is used to immobilize the affected area, and in three days, this splint is removed. Therapy will be initiated for four to six weeks, after which time full use should return to the extremity.