Wrist Tendonitis

Are you aware of the causes and symptoms of wrist tendonitis? To understand what causes tendonitis of the wrist, you must have a basic idea of the anatomy of the human wrist. Well, the wrist anatomy is quite complex. The human wrist comprises of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves and blood vessels. All this structures must work in tandem. When any of the structures get affected by injuries or any medical conditions, we are unable to perform various tasks such as holding or gripping objects. The range of motion of the hands can get extremely restricted, if the wrists become weak.

As the name suggests, wrist tendonitis is a medical condition associated with the tendons that form a part of the human wrist. When one or more tendons present in the wrist get inflamed, one is said to suffer from wrist tendonitis. While passing by the wrist joint, the tendons slide through protective membranes called tendon sheaths or tenosynovium. The thickening of these tendon sheaths can also restrict the movement of the tendons and cause wrist pain. Wrist tendonitis can affect the range of motion of our hands and adversely affect our ability to use our hands in different types of activities. Wondering what causes inflammation of these tendons? Here’s some information on the causes, symptoms and treatment of wrist tendonitis.

Wrist Tendonitis: Causes and Symptoms

Before I tell you about the causes of tendonitis of the wrist, let me give you some idea about wrist tendonitis symptoms. The symptoms of inflamed wrist tendons or a torn cartilage in wrist include wrist pain. The intensity of pain often increases while holding or gripping objects. One might experience severe wrist pain while twisting hands. The pain could also radiate to the forearm. Inflammation of the tendons of the wrist is most likely to lead to a loss of hand strength. As a result, a person suffering from this condition is most likely to experience pain while gripping heavy objects. The other symptoms that might be experienced include swelling, numbness, tenderness, soreness, feeling of tightness and stiffness around the wrist. Since the symptoms of wrist tendonitis are similar to those of carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis of the wrist is often misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Now that you have some idea about the symptoms of wrist tendonitis, let’s move on to the causes. The most common cause of tendonitis of the wrist is trauma to the tendons or repetitive strain injuries. Those who indulge in activities that place undue stress on the tendons are most likely to suffer from wrist pain. Wrist problems might be caused due to repetitive movements such as typing, driving or lifting heavy objects. Those who play sports such as golf, baseball or tennis, might also be at a risk of developing wrist tendonitis. Playing musical instruments that involve repetitive wrist movements might also be responsible for causing inflammation of the tendons.

Wrist Tendonitis: Treatment

Now that you are aware of the causes and symptoms of wrist tendonitis, let’s move on to wrist tendonitis treatment options. Since this condition is caused due to repetitive strain, you must refrain from activities that cause stress to the wrist joint. If wrist tendonitis is diagnosed at an early stage, it can be easily treated. So, if you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor for wrist pain diagnosis soon. Resting the wrist is extremely important, therefore, you must refrain from any activity that might worsen your condition. Application of ice packs might also help in treating a swollen wrist. Generally the treatment starts with the immobilization of the wrist. The patient will have to wear a wrist splint in order to prevent any further damage.

Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs might be required for giving relief from wrist pain. If the symptoms are severe, doctors might recommend the use of steroids. Once the inflammation reduces considerably, you could also go for physical therapy sessions and learn some wrist tendonitis exercises. Wrist strengthening exercises could help in building up the strength of the wrist joint. One can also try acupuncture for healing the inflamed tendons. If these treatment options don’t seem to help, then doctors might suggest wrist tendonitis surgery. The surgery involves the removal of the inflamed tissues so as to facilitate proper movement of the tendons.

This was some information on the causes, symptoms and treatment of wrist tendonitis. If you have been experiencing persistent wrist joint pain, get yourself medically examined soon. If diagnosed at an early stage, one can easily manage this condition. Make sure that you don’t indulge in activities that cause strain to the wrist tendons. Hope you found this information on wrist tendonitis cure useful.