Tenosynovitis (Tendon Sheath Infection)
Description
Painful inflammation of a tendon. The inflammation can result from: overuse or over stretching of the tendon, trauma, infection, or autoimmune diseases. Tendons are the fibrous attachments of the muscles to the bones. The sheath of the tendon can also become inflamed causing tenosynovitis. De Quervain's tenosynovitis is one of the most common types and occurs at the base of the thumb and lateral wrist. When tenosynovitis is caused by an infection prompt treatment is needed to prevent permanent loss of function.
Symptoms
Difficulty moving a joint, joint swelling in the affected area, pain and tenderness around a joint, especially the hand, wrist, foot, or ankle, pain when moving a joint.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. No further test are generally needed. Rarely a MRI is done.
- MRI
Treatment
The goal of therapy is to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Treatment includes: rest, immobilization, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), physical therapy, steroid injections. Rarely surgery is needed. If an infection is thought to be the cause antibiotics may be administered, and surgical opening of the sheath to wash out the infection may be performed.
Related Videos
Share Your Experience
Do you have experience with this disease? Do you or someone
you know suffer from Tenosynovitis (Tendon sheath infection)?
Please share you experience with other members of the iTriage community.