What is the Difference Between de Quervain’s Tenosynovitis and Carpal Tunnel?

De Quervain's tenosynovitis and carpal tunnel syndrome are both conditions that cause pain and discomfort in the wrist, but they have different causes and affect different parts of the wrist.

De Quervain's tenosynovitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the tendons of the wrist, specifically the abductor pollicis longus and the extensor pollicis brevis tendons, which are involved in activities such as picking up a child and holding a cup. This condition is often caused by repetitive activities and pregnancy. The primary symptom of De Quervain's tenosynovitis is pain around the base of the thumb, and it can be difficult for sufferers to move their thumb and wrist.

Carpal tunnel syndrome, on the other hand, is a condition that puts pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, causing symptoms such as tingling or numbness in the fingers or hand, except for the little finger. The feeling can be similar to an electric shock and may travel up the arm past the wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome often wakes people up at night and is more widespread throughout the fingers and wrist.

Key differences between De Quervain's tenosynovitis and carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Location of pain: De Quervain's tenosynovitis affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, while carpal tunnel syndrome affects the median nerve running through the wrist.
• Symptoms: De Quervain's tenosynovitis causes pain and tenderness in the wrist and/or hand and weakness in grip strength. Carpal tunnel syndrome causes tingling or numbness in the fingers or hand, except for the little finger.
• Causes: De Quervain's tenosynovitis is often caused by repetitive activities and pregnancy, while carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve.

Both conditions can be treated with chiropractic care and respond well to conservative treatments such as manual stretching. It is essential to address the problem quickly before it worsens and requires more invasive treatments.

Comparative Table: de Quervain’s Tenosynovitis vs Carpal Tunnel

The main differences between de Quervain's tenosynovitis and carpal tunnel syndrome are the location of the pain and the affected tendons or nerves. Here is a table comparing the two conditions:

Both conditions can be identified and treated by a healthcare professional, such as an occupational therapist or a physician.