How to treat hand tenosynovitis

Treatment for hand tenosynovitis includes rest, medication, and physical therapy. The main reason for the inflammation of the tendon sheath is due to overuse or repetitive movements. Patients should reduce hand activities and use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or diclofenac to relieve pain and inflammation. At the same time, hot compresses, cold compresses, or ultrasound therapy can promote recovery. For severe cases, local steroid injections or surgical intervention may be considered.

1. Rest and immobilization: Reducing hand activity is the key to relieving tenosynovitis. Avoid repetitive movements or overuse of the affected area. Use protective gear or splints to immobilize the wrist and fingers to help relieve the pressure on the tendon sheath and promote the disappearance of inflammation.

2. Drug treatment: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen or diclofenac can effectively relieve pain and inflammation. For patients with obvious local symptoms, topical ointments or gels containing anti-inflammatory ingredients can be used.

3. Physical therapy: Hot compress can promote blood circulation and relieve muscle tension; cold compress can help reduce swelling and pain in the acute stage. Ultrasound therapy promotes tissue repair and improves local inflammation through high-frequency sound waves.

4. Local injection: For patients with persistent or severe symptoms, the doctor may recommend injecting steroid drugs such as dexamethasone or triamcinolone into the tendon sheath to quickly reduce inflammation and pain.

5. Surgical treatment: When conservative treatment is ineffective or tenosynovitis recurs, surgery can be considered to loosen the tendon sheath and relieve the pressure on the tendon. Surgery usually uses minimally invasive technology and recovery is faster.

6. Lifestyle adjustment: Avoid using mobile phones or computers for long periods of time or performing repetitive hand movements, and pay attention to the combination of work and rest. Perform hand stretching and strengthening exercises regularly to enhance the tolerance of tendons and tendon sheaths.

The treatment of hand tenosynovitis should be combined with the cause and severity of symptoms. Early intervention can effectively relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence. Patients should follow a comprehensive approach of rest, medication, physical therapy, and consider surgical intervention if necessary. At the same time, they should adjust their lifestyle, avoid overuse of their hands, and ensure long-term health.