Wrist tendonitis is a common injury caused by inflammation or irritation of the tendons in the wrist joint.
Wrist tendonitis can be very painful and stop you from doing everyday activities like work, sport, and even household chores. You can usually tell if wrist pain is caused by tendonitis – no matter if it’s persistent or just intermittent — by whether it gets worse with movement or pressure.
You might see visible swelling, or even notice a difficulty in moving your wrist, especially with gripping or twisting motions. You’d also notice weakness in grip strength, and some people can feel a popping or snapping sensation when moving the wrist.
So, think you have wrist tendonitis and wondering how on earth you got it?
Repetitive movement is to blame. Activities like typing or playing an instrument can cause wrist tendonitis, and sport is a common cause as well. People who play sports like tennis or golf can easily strain the tendons in the wrist. Also, overuse of the wrist without a proper rest can trigger inflammation too.
Age can also be a factor. As we age, our tendons can weaken and become more at risk for injury through straining over time. And medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes are known to increase someone’s chances of developing tendonitis in the wrist.
Treatment
It’s not all bad news. If you suspect you have wrist tendonitis, seeing one of our specialist hand therapists can help with a tailored treatment plan.
That might look like using a wrist brace to give the wrist a chance to heal. Exercises are usually key to recovery too as they can help strengthen the wrist muscles and improve flexibility and grip strength. Other treatments might be suitable like heat or cold therapy to reduce pain and inflammation, or techniques like massage could help release the tension and improve joint mobility.
With the right treatment and rehabilitation, wrist pain from tendonitis tends to go away, and most people see an improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks to months. Only in severe cases people with wrist tendonitis need surgery – this is quite rare and it’s often a last resort of treatment.
Taking notice of pain in your wrist and seeing a hand therapist about it is the best thing you can do.
Altogether better health
Habit Health deliver physical, mental health and workplace support, enabling people to optimise their health and live their best lives.
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