Thumb Pain Treatment Oakville

Symptoms of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, commonly referred to as “Text Thumb,” include pain on the thumb side of the wrist, discomfort and/or weakness when gripping or rotating the wrist, and swelling on the thumb side of the wrist. Any movement involving the thumb can become extremely painful. Over the past decade, the leading cause of thumb pain at our Oakville clinic has been excessive texting and smartphone usage.

The onset of this condition is typically gradual. Occupations that involve repetitive pinching, twisting, or grasping movements increase the risk of developing De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis. New mothers and pregnant women are particularly susceptible due to hormonal changes and the physical demands of lifting a child.

Even recreational activities such as bowling, sewing, knitting, and playing the piano have been identified as potential risk factors.

Thumb Pain Exercises Download PDF

1. Interferential Current Therapy and Heat

Interferential Current (IFC) therapy combined with moist heat is typically the first step in treating hand and thumb injuries at our clinic. IFC is an advanced electrical stimulation therapy designed to increase blood flow, reduce pain, and relax tight tissues in the hand and thumb. When paired with moist heat, this treatment enhances circulation and prepares the injured area for further therapy. Our experienced physiotherapists and chiropractors use this approach to optimize healing, reduce discomfort, and improve mobility, ensuring a more effective and efficient recovery process

2. Shockwave Therapy for Thumb Pain

Shockwave Therapy is an advanced treatment that uses an air-powered device to deliver high-frequency pulses to the affected area. This technology propels a small bullet against an applicator head up to 15 times per second, effectively stimulating healing and breaking down scar tissue.

Our thumb pain specialists typically administer between 900 and 1,200 targeted pulses to the thumb and hand, using a specialized red applicator head designed specifically for thumb treatment. At our Oakville clinic, our physiotherapists and chiropractors follow scientifically proven protocols to ensure optimal results.

Recognized as the gold standard for treating thumb pain, Shockwave Therapy promotes tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and enhances mobility. To maximize recovery, our healthcare team recommends applying ice to the thumb following treatment.

3. Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy (IASTT), commonly referred to as “scraping” by our healthcare practitioners, is an effective technique used to break up superficial adhesions and scar tissue in the thumb and hand. This specialized treatment involves using a precision-designed metal tool to target areas of pain and stiffness, helping to restore mobility and promote healing.

At our Oakville clinic, Dr. Steve carefully applies the tool to the affected areas, using controlled pressure to release tightness and improve circulation. While the treatment can be momentarily uncomfortable, it is highly effective and typically lasts only a minute or two. Many patients experience noticeable relief and improved movement shortly after their session.

To maximize the benefits of IASTT and reduce any residual soreness, patients are always advised to apply ice to the treated area following their appointment.

What are the Best De Quervain’s Exercises?

After consulting with one of our Thumb pain experts these exercises and stretches can be included as part of therapy. These thumb exercises are designed to make the thumb as comfortable as possible in the early stages of healing, and then strengthen the muscles to prevent the condition from returning in the future.

The most important and often most difficult requirement in healing a Text Thumb injury or Gamer’s Thumb is rest. The thumb needs to rest. Texting, computer work and lifting need to be significantly reduced in order for the thumb to recover. Ice should be applied over the tendons to reduce inflammation, and specific splints and braces should be worn to help the healing process happen as quickly as possible.

Download the FREE Thumb Exercises