ANATOMY AT A GLANCE
The first dorsal tendon compartment lies on the thumb side of the wrist and contains two tendons that move the thumb.
Typical symptoms
Pain occurs on the thumb side of the wrist, for example during gripping or lifting. It may spread into the thumb or forearm; local swelling can occur.
How is the cause assessed?
Examination assesses tenderness over the first tendon compartment and pain with thumb movement. Imaging may be needed if joint disease or injury is suspected.
Consider other causes
The thumb base joint can also cause pain in this area. The precise location of tenderness helps distinguish joint pain from tendon symptoms.
Treatment options
Without surgery
Reducing aggravating movements, a thumb and wrist splint, and sometimes a clinician-guided steroid injection can help.
Surgical options
If suitable nonsurgical treatment does not help, surgery can release the tight tendon tunnel.
Suitable treatment depends on the confirmed diagnosis, examination findings and your individual needs.
When to seek an examination
Seek assessment for persistent pain or difficulty gripping. Activity may aggravate symptoms but is not always the underlying cause.
Sources & editorial status
British Society for Surgery of the Hand (BSSH)
British Society for Surgery of the Hand (BSSH)