De Quervain syndrome is an inflammation or a tendinosis of the sheath or tunnel that surrounds two tendons that control movement of the thumb.
The two tendons concerned are the tendons of the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus muscles. These two muscles, which run side by side, have almost the same function: the movement of the thumb away from the hand in the plane of the hand--so called radial abduction (as opposed to movement of the thumb away from the hand, out of the plane of the hand (palmar abduction)). The tendons run, as do all of the tendons passing the wrist, in synovial sheaths, which contain them and allow them to exercise their function whatever the position of the wrist.
While de Quervain syndrome is commonly believed to be an inflammatory condition or tenosynovitis, evaluation of histological specimens shows no inflammatory changes--rather a thickening and myxoid degeneration consistent with a chronic degenerative process are seen. The pathology is identical in de Quervain seen in new mothers.
De Quervain syndrome is more common in women. A speculative rationale for this is that women have a greater styloid process angle of the radius, but scientific support for this is theory is lacking.
The syndrome is not dis-similar to Repetitive Strain Injury or RSI. If you are suffering form this form of injury then you should be able to claim compensation for your injuries. Contact Accident Consult today to speak to an expert regarding claiming compensation. Visit our claim caluclator to find out how much compensation you might be entitled too.
