Paraffin bath therapy in De Quervain's tenosynovitis: a single-blind randomized controlled trial

Data on the efficacy of treatment modalities in De Quervain's tenosynovitis (DQT) is limited. Paraffin therapy is routinely used in treating hand osteoarthritis and neuropathies. However, there are not enough studies investigating paraffin effectiveness. This study evaluates the effectiveness of paraffin bath therapy on pain, functional status, muscle strength, and quality of life in patients with DQT. This prospective, single-blind, randomized, controlled study enrolled 51 DQT patients. Group 1 (n = 26) received paraffin bath + splint + exercise; Group 2 (n = 25) received splint + exercise therapy. Pain, handgrip strength, thumb palmar pinch strength, functional status, and quality of life were evaluated. Both treatment combinations improved pain, grip strength, palmar pinch strength of the thumb, functional status, and quality of life. The paraffin group provided more effective pain control than the paraffin-free group and was more effective in improving functional status, handgrip strength, and quality of life (p < 0.05). Apparently, adding paraffin therapy to the combination of the splint and therapeutic exercise positively affects the patient's treatment outcomes. For this reason, paraffin therapy should be included in the conservative treatment combinations in DQT.