De Quervain's Tenosynovitis and Phonophoresis: A Randomised Controlled Trial in Pregnant Females

摘要

BackgroundDe Quervain's tenosynovitis is a common cause of wrist pain in pregnant and postpartum females. This study provides objective evidence regarding the therapeutic efficacy of phonophoresis in treating de Quervain's disease during pregnancy.MethodsIn a single blind, randomised, controlled trial (n?=?50), ketoprofen phonophoresis was given to the intervention group and conventional ultrasound (US) was given to controls, coupled with thumb splint immobilisation, and supervised strengthening and stretching exercises for 1 month. Symptomatic and functional improvement was assessed by visual pain analogue, grip, tip, key, and palmer pinch scales.ResultsThere was a statistically significant improvement in the intervention group compared to the control group in grip and pinch strength, and pain reduction.ConclusionKetoprofen phonophoresis as an adjunct to supervised exercise and splint immobilisation is a safe and effective therapy for de Quervain's tenosynovitis during pregnancy. Phonophoresis augments the benefits of US in terms of reducing pain and inflammation, and improving functional strength.