Nonpharmacological management for de Quervain tenosynovitis
Resting the thumb is considered an effective treatment for de Quervain tenosynovitis; however, this can be difficult for people to implement and maintain, especially in the postpartum period. Splinting to immobilise the base of the thumb (thumb spica) is often recommended for both rest and reducing pain. Refer the patient to a hand or occupational therapist for fabrication of a splint and advice about specific exercises. Splinting is most often used continuously for 4 to 6 weeks and slowly reduced thereafter. Splinting should be used in combination with other therapies (eg local corticosteroid injection)Cavaleri, 2016.