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Tenosynovitis is pain and inflammation of the sheath that surrounds a tendon. It’s a relatively rare cause of hand pain that can affect the wrist or the fingers.
The cause is not always known. It may be brought on by a series of small injuries to the tendon, a previous injury or strain, infection, or rheumatoid arthritis.
It’s important to rest the hand or keep the tendons still, to allow recovery. You might be able to relieve the pain and inflammation by applying heat or cold to the area, and by taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen.
Injections of corticosteroids (steroid medication) can sometimes help.
Tenosynovitis caused by infection will need treating with antibiotics.
After the hand has recovered, strengthening exercises using the muscles around the affected tendon will help prevent the injury returning. Your GP or physiotherapist will be able to advise about this.
You can self-refer into community physiotherapy services. Simply call 0207 871 0545 to make an appointment. Your initial contact with one of our chartered physiotherapists may be over the phone, where you will either be given advice on appropriate treatment, or a face-to-face consultation will be arranged.
Should you wish to speak to your GP first, simply make an appointment with your local practice. If your GP refers you, one of our patient care advisers will contact you within 48 hours to arrange an appointment.
Photographs of Camden by Joe Hearsey
Camden MSK logo by Eloise Jones
