Causes

• According to the Mayo Clinic, one of the most common causes of de Quervain's tenosynovitis is overuse. For example, if you spend a lot of time daily in your garden pruning and cutting plants, you may develop the condition in the hand you use to do such activities. It develops when the covering of the tendons becomes irritated, which in turn can cause inflammation, making it difficult for the tendons to move properly. Other possible causes of the condition include arthritis associated with inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, and any form of direct injury to the tendon. If you experience what you think is de Quervain's tenosynovitis, consult with your doctor immediately to begin treatment and to prevent it from getting worse.
  
  

Home Treatment

• If your case of de Quervain's tenosynovitis is not serious, simple immobilization can help expedite healing. According to the Hand University, your doctor most likely will recommend a wrist brace known as a thumb-spica splint to help prevent unnecessary movement of the wrist. After utilizing the brace for a period of time set forth by your doctor, he can show you some simple exercises to keep the wrist and fingers strong and healthy. The types of exercises utilized are determined by your doctor and based on your specific condition. Finally, simply applying hot or cold compresses while utilizing over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help with pain and inflammation, at least in the short term. All of these treatment methods can be accomplished from the comfort of your home, though an initial doctor's visit may be necessary to diagnose the condition properly and to determine whether or not home treatment is all that is necessary.