Risk Factor Analysis of De Quervain Syndrome in Mothers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Surakarta

Abstract

Introduction: De Quervain's tenosynovitis is six times more common in women than in men, particularly among women of childbearing age. Household activities such as carrying children, washing, and wringing clothes involving the thumb and wrist can increase the risk of this condition. Frequent carrying of children is significantly associated with its occurrence (p=0.00), with 24% of respondents reporting severe pain. Women aged 30–50 years often experience De Quervain Syndrome, especially postpartum. This study analyzed the factors associated with De Quervain Syndrome in mothers.

Methods: This observational study employed a cross-sectional design and was conducted at several integrated health posts (Posyandu) in Pajang Village, Laweyan Subdistrict, Surakarta City, between November and December 2024. The study population consisted of mothers attending toddler Posyandu activities across six neighborhoods (Rukun Warga or RW). A total of 75 participants were selected using purposive sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were analyzed using descriptive-analytic methods, and the chi-square test was employed to examine the relationships between dependent and independent variables.

Results: The analysis revealed that maternal age (p=0.00), number of children (p=0.048), breastfeeding status (p=0.04), frequency of carrying children (p=0.00), and hand dominance (p=0.016) were significantly associated with the occurrence of De Quervain Syndrome (p-values < 0.05).

Conclusion: Factors such as maternal age, number of children, breastfeeding status, frequency of carrying children, and hand dominance are significantly associated with the occurrence of De Quervain Syndrome in mothers. This study highlights the importance of educating mothers about the risks of household activities on wrist health.

Keywords: De Quervain Syndrome, mothers, Finkelstein test, risk factors