Wrist Tendinopathy

What is wrist tendinopathy?

Known as either wrist tendinopathy as well as wrist tendinitis, this condition is characterized as an inflammation of the wrist tendons due to overuse. Tendons are bands of fibrous tissue that connect the bones to the muscles.
Every time the muscle of the wrist contracts, tension is also placed on the wrist tendons. If this tension is too much for the tendon to bear – such as in repetitive wrist motions or sudden forceful wrist movements – the wrist tendons become damaged and inflamed.

 Wrist tendinopathy can be further subdivided into different types as follows: Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Tendinopathy, De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, Intersection Syndrome, Flexor Carpi Radialis (FCR) Tendonitis, and Flexor Carpi Ulnaris (FCU) Tendonitis. For all these various types of tendinopathies, the main management process is the same – early diagnosis, activity modification, physiotherapy and pharmacologic therapy.

 
Who are at risk for wrist tendinopathy?

One study stated that wrist and hand tendinopathy occurs in up to 56% of physical workers such as house cleaners or factory employees. Sports enthusiasts also frequently experience wrist tendinopathy, especially those who enjoy golf, tennis, rowing and skiing. Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, joint hypermobility and diabetes are also at higher risk for developing wrist tendinopathy than the general population.

What are the signs and symptoms of wrist tendinopathy?

• Wrist pain that worsens upon movement of the wrist joint

• Hand pain

• Skin over the affected tendon is warm to touch

• Skin redness over the affected tendon

• Wrist swelling

• Wrist tenderness

How is Wrist Tendinopathy diagnosed?

Similar to other orthopedic injuries, wrist tendinopathy is diagnosed primarily through medical history and physical examination. Usually history and physical provide a good basis to a diagnosis, although additional tests may be required for further assessment and diagnosis. These may include: x-rays of the wrist, complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and rheumatoid factor. Bone scans and MRI scans may also be used to further confirm the extent of the injury and to look for underlying pathology.

How is wrist tendinopathy managed and treated?

Rest, cold compresses, and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory ease the symptoms of wrist tendinopathy, and may even resolve it completely. Splinting may also be applied to the affected wrist to allow it to rest and keep it immobilized while healing. For severe cases, oral corticosteroids and corticosteroid injections are used. In addition, physical therapy may also be beneficial.

How can DOCCS help?

Although wrist tendinopathy is not a life-threatening condition, the pain that it brings still has to be managed and dealt with properly. If you’re suffering from this condition, it is wise to consult a physician.

DOCCS is open for you 7 days a week. We have excellent health practitioners who will deliver the highest caliber of care to you. DOCCS physicians will diagnose your symptoms accurately through the use of state-of-the-art diagnostic facilities.

Furthermore, healthcare professionals in the clinic will help you and teach you how to manage Wrist Tendinopathy correctly. You will receive full guidance and support and our experts will teach you all the things that you need to know regarding the condition: the medications to take; the risks involved before and after the treatment; and how to maintain a healthy wrist. You should not let your condition control you, talk to DOCCS now and find out what we can do for you.