All surgeries
Surgery & recovery
De Quervain's release
Opens the tight tunnel over two thumb tendons at the wrist so they can glide without irritation.
Why it's done
- Persistent thumb-side wrist pain not relieved by splinting or injections
Typical recovery phases
Timelines are general patterns. Your surgeon's protocol always wins.
- 1Days 0–7
Wound care; gentle thumb motion.
Use a thumb spica only as your surgeon directs.
- 2Weeks 1–4
Restore thumb and wrist motion.
Light functional use returns.
- 3Weeks 4–8
Strength and full activity.
Pinch and grip strengthening as cleared.
Red flags — call your team
- Spreading redness
- Drainage
- Fever
- Severe new pain
Splints you may wear
Sources
- De Quervain's tendinosis — American Society for Surgery of the Hand(accessed 2026-04-21)