A common overuse injury that occurs at the wrist is called deQuervain’s tenosynovitis. It is caused by repetitive activity of the long tendons that control thumb movement and leads to pain and swelling over this tendons at the thumb side of the forearm. Symptoms include pain and swelling over the tendons and maybe even a crunchy sensation over the tendons as the thumb moves (crepitus). Musicians e.g. guitarists, chefs and office workers are all prone to this injury. A thorough assessment is needed to work out why the overuse injury occurred so that training or work practices can be changed to prevent future episodes. Treatment may involve non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, icing, manual therapy (massage) and exercise.
