de Quervain's Release

University of Virginia Orthopaedic Surgery

Weight-Bearing

NWB initially

Key Restrictions

Thumb spica postop splint; no resistance strengthening until 6 weeks; avoid 1st dorsal wrist compartment irritation during strengthening

Timeline & Phases

Phase 1 (0-2 wks): thumb spica splint, finger/elbow AROM; Phase 2 (2-6 wks): thumb spica WHFO orthosis, wrist 4-way AROM, thumb opposition/joint blocking, radial nerve glides, begin weaning at week 4; Phase 3 (6-12 wks): wrist/forearm and grip strengthening, continue radial nerve glides

Notes

Radial nerve glides; 1st dorsal compartment tendon gliding; thumb CMC/MCP/IP ROM; night orthosis optional for relative rest

Published

09/2024