Tendonitis can cause pain and limit motion in the wrist. This can make it difficult to engage in day-to-day tasks effectively. At Boston Hand to Shoulder, we specialize in both diagnosing and treating tendonitis in the wrist.
What Is Tendonitis in the Wrist?
Tendonitis in the wrist, also called tenosynovitis, refers to the inflammation of the tendons in the wrist. These tendons are responsible for controlling the movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
How Long Does Tendonitis Last?
Tendonitis most often heals in 2-4 weeks with proper treatment. However, chronic cases which arise from ignoring the condition, may take up to several months to heal. It is important to seek treatment early to ensure a full and quick recovery.
Causes
Wrist tendonitis can be caused by a number of factors. Most commonly these are:
- Repetitive motions: Overuse or repetitive movements of the wrist, including typing, playing sports, or using a computer, can put stress on the tendons, leading to inflammation.
- Injury: A sudden injury to the wrist can cause tendonitis to develop.
- Other conditions: Certain conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes, can contribute to the development of tendonitis.
Being aware of risk factors that lead to tendonitis helps you take preventative measures where possible to help reduce the chances of tendonitis, or worsening symptoms, over time.
Symptoms
It is important to be able to identify wrist tendonitis symptoms so that treatment can be sought as soon as possible. Symptoms include:
- Pain in the wrist, especially when making a fist, lifting objects, or performing repetitive wrist movements
- Swelling around the wrist joint or the bases of the fingers
- Stiffness in the wrist, making it difficult to move and reducing range of motion
- A catching or popping sensation when moving the wrist or fingers
If you notice any of these symptoms, an appointment should be made with a hand and wrist specialist to check for tendonitis in the wrist and discuss treatment options.
Treatment
Wrist tendonitis treatment will vary depending on the severity of your condition. In minor cases, rest and icing the area may be sufficient, as well as the use of anti-inflammatory medications, such as NSAIDs.
Rarely, in the most severe cases, surgery may be necessary. This surgery involves releasing the tendons to provide relief.
Wrist Brace for Tendonitis
One of the most used treatments for tendonitis is a wrist brace. The brace compresses and supports the wrist, allowing the tendons to rest and heal. A De Quervain’s tendonitis wrist splint is used in cases of De Quervain’s tendonitis, where the tendons in the thumb and side of the wrist are affected. This splint specifically supports the thumb, taking pressure off of the tendons.
Does Wrist Tendonitis Ever Go Away?
Most cases of tendonitis will go away with proper treatment. This can take a few weeks or a few months, depending on the severity of the condition. There are cases of chronic tendonitis which may require ongoing management.
For tendonitis to go away as soon as possible, you should make an appointment with a hand and wrist specialist today.