The tendons to the thumb have become inflamed in their sheath. It especially hurts when moving the thumb, and often there is often local tenderness above the wrist on the thumb side when grasping. More common among women, and the underlying reason is unclear. Unilateral work with the thumb, usually just after childbirth and perhaps hormonally triggered.

The disease may go away by itself, but often surgery is required to cure the condition. Resting the hand using a brace can bring relief, and anti-inflammatory medicine and cortisone injections can also provide a more permanent outcome. But if this fails then an operation is recommended which opens up the tendon sheath and removes the inflammation of the tissue.

The aim of the operation is to remove the inflammation of the tissue between the tendon and the surrounding tendon sheath. The operation is performed under local anaesthesia. Sick leave for 3-4 weeks. Often tenderness and swelling after the operation for several weeks, and the patient may need the help of an occupational therapist to get the operated wrist working again.

As a final result you can expect pain relief around the base of the thumb and wrist. The operation often produces good results.