Tendonitis - Wrist

Wrist Tendonitis

Wrist tendonitis, also called tenosynovitis, is a common condition characterized by irritation and inflammation of the tendons around the wrist joint. Many tendons surround the wrist joint. Wrist tendonitis usually affect one of the tendons, but it may also involve two or more. Often wrist tendonitis occurs at points where the tendons cross eachother or pass over a bony prominence.
The wrist tendons slide through smooth sheaths as they pass by the wrist joint. These tendon sheaths, called the tenosynovium, allow the tendons to glide smoothly in a low-friction manner.

When wrist tendonitis becomes a problem, the tendon sheath or tenosynovium, becomes thickened and constricts the gliding motion of the tendons. The inflammation also makes movements of the tendon painful and difficult.

What are the Symptoms of Wrist Tendonitis?

The most common and consistent complaint of patients diagnosed with wrist tendonitis is pain over the area of inflammation. Swelling of the surrounding soft-tissues is also quite common.

How is the Diagnosis of Wrist Tendonitis Made?

Diagnosis of wrist tendonitis is a made by looking for the characteristic signs of this problem. In addition, depending on the tendon that is inflamed, the physician can perform tests that stretch the area of concern to locate the precise source of inflammation.

For example, one type of wrist tendonitis is called DeQuervain's tenosynovitis. This is inflammation of the tendon at the base of the thumb. Often seen in new mothers, DeQuervain's tenosynovitis is diagnosed by a specific test called 'Finkelstein's test' where the patient makes a fist and the wrist is pulled away from the thumb. Pain from this maneuver is diagnostic of this type of wrist tendonitis.

Rehabilitation Exercises

The exercises below will help to strengthen the wrist. Please note that these should only be attempted when the initial tendonitis has subsided and you wish to strengthen the wrist. If any pain is initiated from these exercises then you should immediately cease the exercises.

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