Wrist Tendonitis
Wrist Tendonitis can occur in any of the wrist flexor or extensor tendons which cross the wrist joint. Tendonitis (or more accurately, tendinopathy) is a degenerative condition which causes pain and thickening of a tendon.
Symptoms of Wrist Tendonitis
- Pain in the wrist.
- Tender to palpate the tendon in question.
- Pain and stiffness in the mornings.
- Swelling.
- A creaking feeling in the tendon (crepitus).
Causes
Tendonitis is an overuse condition which occurs due to repetitive friction of the tendon. For this reason it usually occurs in a tendon which rubs over a bony prominence.
Whilst tendonitis is the most common term used to describe this injury, it is technically incorrect. The term tendinopathy is not used as it does not include the 'itis' suffix which suggests inflammation. It have been found via investigations and biopsies that there are no inflammatory cells present in this condition. Tendinopathies are more degenerative in nature.
Activities which require repetitive wrist movements are most likely to contribute to the development of wrist tendonitis. Examples include sports such as badminton and jobs such as working a production line.
Treatment of Wrist Tendonitis
- Rest from aggravating activities.
- Wearing a wrist splint or support may help with this.
- Apply cold therapy to ease pain and swelling.
- Your Doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen.
- If this fails a corticosteroid injection may be given.
- If this is also unsuccessful, surgery may be offered.
- The aim of surgery is to release the tendon from its sheath and to remove and adhesions from the tendon, allowing it to move more freely, thus reducing the friction and degeneration.
