De Quervain's tenosynovitis is diagnosed using several tests, the most common being the Finkelstein test. This test involves bending your thumb across your palm, then bending your fingers over your thumb, and finally, bending your wrist towards your little finger. Pain on the thumb side of your wrist during this maneuver strongly suggests de Quervain's tenosynovitis.
However, other tests are also used, including:
- Eichhoff's test: This test is often confused with the Finkelstein test. While similar, subtle differences exist between the two. Sources suggest Finkelstein's test is superior.
- Wrist Hyperflexion and Abduction of the Thumb (WHAT) test: This is a relatively newer test used to assess De Quervain's disease, focusing on the tenosynovitis of the thumb tendons.
Several sources highlight the Finkelstein test as a primary diagnostic tool for de Quervain's tenosynovitis. The Eichhoff test is frequently mentioned as an alternative, though recent research suggests the Finkelstein test is superior. The WHAT test offers another approach to assessment.
How the Finkelstein Test Works:
The Finkelstein test elicits pain by stressing the tendons affected in De Quervain's tenosynovitis. The combined movements of thumb flexion, finger flexion, and ulnar deviation of the wrist put pressure on the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons, causing pain if inflammation is present.
