TFCC Injury
Wrist/Hand > TFCC Injury
The Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) is a piece of cartilage on the pinky side of your wrist that helps to stabilize and support your wrist. Tears in this tissue can cause chronic wrist pain.
Mechanism of Injury: FOOSH (fall on outstretched hand)
Contributing Factors: Poor wrist mobility.
Signs/Symptoms: Pain on the pinky side of your wrist. Clicking,catching sensation in wrist. Restricted range of motion. Difficulty grasping, lifting, weight bearing.
At Home Tests: None - see symptom list.
At Home Treatment: Radiocarpal distraction (video). Comfort care: ice, NSAIDs.
When to Seek Help: If your wrist pain does not improve in 7 days, or if it prevents you from participating in your sport or other activities, see your physical therapist.
Treatment at Inspired Athletx: Most TFCC injuries can be treated conservatively with a combination of manual therapy, corrective exercise, and occasionally bracing. Manual therapy improves pain and mobility by reducing stiffness at the wrist and elbow joints, and the wrist flexor and extensor muscles. Therapeutic exercise will focus on strengthening the supportive wrist musculature, as well as the shoulder and core to reduce unnecessary strain on the wrist. If patients continue to experience pain at the end range of motion, a brace may be added to limit range of motion slightly during sports or other activities. Click here to schedule a physical therapy evaluation with us.
Disclaimer: The content contained in this section of the website is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to function as a substitute for a professional diagnosis or treatment from a licensed healthcare provider.
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