Most common in women (especially aged 30–50) and frequently associated with postpartum care (lifting infants). Other triggers include repetitive thumb activities like texting, gaming, golfing, or racquet sports.

Most patients respond well to non-operative management, which is typically considered the first line of defense. Management of de Quervain Tenosynovitis - JAMA Network

While often called "inflammation," modern research suggests it may be a degenerative process (tendinosis) rather than a purely inflammatory one.