What is tenosynovitis?

Tenosynovitis, also known as tendon sheath inflammation, is a type of sterile, overuse-related inflammatory condition caused by repetitive strain. The term "tenosynovitis" is simply the abbreviated form of tendon sheath inflammation.

The tendon sheath acts like a pulley that stabilizes the sliding motion of tendons, ensuring that the direction of tendon movement remains consistent during exertion, thereby effectively transmitting muscular force to the distal finger joints. Localized swelling and thickening of the tendon sheath increase pressure within the tendon tunnel, leading to compression of the moving tendon. This impairs smooth finger movement and may even trigger secondary changes—this condition is known as tenosynovitis.

In general, patients with tenosynovitis can seek medical treatment at hospitals through physical therapy or local steroid injections. For recurrent cases, treatment with a small needle knife (minimally invasive needle knife therapy) may be used. Acute serous tenosynovitis requires anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic treatment, while tuberculous tenosynovitis necessitates anti-tuberculosis therapy, with surgical incision and drainage performed if necessary. Patients should protect the affected area, avoid exposure to cold or chilling conditions, and, in cases of severe pain, take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for relief. Additionally, applying local heat therapy can help alleviate symptoms. It's important to avoid overusing the affected area.