Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with localized pain and tenderness over the radial styloid of the left wrist, exacerbated by thumb movement and grasping activities. Onset is insidious, with no history of acute trauma. Symptoms interfere with activities of daily living.
Clinical Examination Findings
Physical examination of the left wrist reveals localized tenderness over the first dorsal compartment. Finkelsteinโs test is positive, eliciting sharp pain along the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons. No evidence of distal neurovascular deficit. Range of motion is limited by pain.
Treatment Protocol
Recommended management includes immobilization with a thumb spica splint, activity modification to avoid repetitive thumb abduction, and a course of NSAIDs. Consider corticosteroid injection into the first dorsal compartment if symptoms persist. Physical therapy referral for ergonomic assessment.