Wrist Tendonitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of wrist tendonitis?

Wrist tendonitis, or tendinitis, occurs when the tendons in the wrist become inflamed. The symptoms include:

• Pain: Often a dull or aching pain around the wrist joint, which may worsen with movement or activity.
• Tenderness: Sensitivity or tenderness to touch, especially near the affected tendon.
• Swelling: Visible or palpable swelling around the wrist joint.
• Stiffness: Reduced range of motion or stiffness in the wrist, making it difficult to perform tasks.
• Warmth: The affected area may feel warm to the touch due to inflammation.
• Weakness: Decreased strength in the wrist, which can affect grip and dexterity.
• Crepitus: A sensation of creaking or grating when moving the wrist, caused by the tendons rubbing against the surrounding structures.

These symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the specific tendons involved.

What are the causes of wrist tendonitis?

Wrist tendonitis is typically caused by repetitive stress or overuse of the wrist. Common causes include:

• Repetitive Movements: Frequent, repetitive motions of the wrist, such as typing, using a mouse, or performing manual labor, can strain the tendons.
• Overuse: Engaging in activities that put excessive stress on the wrist without adequate rest can lead to tendonitis.
• Injury or Trauma: Acute injuries or trauma to the wrist, such as sprains or fractures, can result in tendonitis.
• Improper Technique: Using improper techniques or ergonomics in activities like sports or work tasks can contribute to tendon strain.
• Poor Posture: Poor wrist positioning or posture during activities can lead to excessive strain on the tendons.
• Aging: Tendons become less flexible and more prone to injury with age, increasing the risk of tendonitis.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can cause inflammation in the tendons, leading to tendonitis.
• Incorrect Equipment: Using equipment that is not properly adjusted or suited for the activity can contribute to tendon strain.

Addressing these factors and modifying activities or techniques can help prevent and manage wrist tendonitis.

What is the treatment for tendonitis?

The treatment for tendonitis typically involves a combination of methods to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healing. Here are common approaches:

• Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the condition is crucial. Resting the affected tendon helps reduce inflammation and prevents further injury.
• Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. It is generally recommended to apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially in the initial stages of inflammation.
• Compression: Using an elastic bandage or compression wrap can help reduce swelling and provide support to the affected area.
• Elevation: Keeping the affected limb elevated can help reduce swelling.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles around the tendon, improve flexibility, and enhance overall function. They may also use techniques like ultrasound therapy or massage to promote healing.
• Splints or Braces: Using a splint or brace can help immobilize and protect the affected tendon, allowing it to heal properly.
• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Once the acute inflammation has subsided, specific exercises can help stretch and strengthen the affected tendon and surrounding muscles.
• Ergonomic Adjustments: Making changes to work or activity environments to reduce repetitive strain and improve posture can help prevent recurrence.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In cases where other treatments are ineffective, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce severe inflammation.
• Surgery: If conservative treatments fail and tendonitis persists, surgical intervention might be considered to repair or release the affected tendon.

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific case of tendonitis.