Wrist Tendonitis

Repetitive motions, such as when playing sports, physical labor, and typing can all put stress on the tendons of the wrist over time. Wrist tendonitis, or tenosynovitis, occurs when the tendons around the wrist become inflamed or swollen, causing the synovium around the tendon to swell as well. This inflammation then reduces mobility in the joint. Important to note, unlike tendonitis, which is an inflammation of the tendon, carpal tunnel is caused by compression of the nerve.

Patients commonly experience wrist pain, swelling, stiffness, warmth and redness of the tendons around the wrist, grinding sensations, decreased range of motion, and weakness in the wrist. A non-surgical treatment plan can be developed to relieve wrist pain to include immobilization, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), cortisone Injections, and physical therapy. If symptoms persist, the tunnel- through which the tendon passes- can be surgically opened to make more room for the tendons and reduce pressure.