Wrist tendonitis is an inflammation or irritation of the tendons around the wrist joint. It typically occurs from overuse, repetitive movements, or sudden trauma. Common among athletes, office workers, and manual laborers, wrist tendonitis can cause pain, swelling, and reduced function if left untreated (1).
Symptoms
Wrist tendonitis symptoms often develop gradually. Common signs include:
- Pain or tenderness around the wrist, especially on movementSwelling or warmth over the affected tendons
- A grinding or creaking sensation during wrist motion (crepitus)
- Weak grip strength
- Stiffness in the morning or after rest
Symptoms may worsen with activities like typing, lifting, writing, or playing sports that strain the wrist (1).
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes:
Wrist tendonitis is typically caused by:
- Repetitive wrist motions, such as typing, texting, or using tools
- Sudden injuries or overexertion
- Improper ergonomics at workstations
- Sports involving frequent wrist use (e.g., tennis, golf, weightlifting)
Risk Factors:
- Occupations requiring repetitive hand movement
- Poor posture or technique in daily activities
- Arthritis or other inflammatory conditions
- Age-related tendon wear
- Weak forearm or wrist muscles (1)(2)
Complications
If untreated, wrist tendonitis can lead to:
- Chronic pain and swelling
- Reduced range of motion or wrist stiffness
- Tendon degeneration (tendinosis)
- Tendon rupture in severe cases
- Loss of function, affecting daily tasks or job performance
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to avoiding long-term damage (2).
Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose wrist tendonitis through:
- Physical examination, including movement tests and palpation of tender areas
- Medical history review (occupation, activities, recent strain)
- Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI (to rule out tears or tenosynovitis)
- X-rays may be used to rule out bone-related conditions (2)
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment:
- Rest and activity modification to prevent further irritation
- Ice application for 15–20 minutes several times a day
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) for pain and inflammation
- Splinting or bracing to limit movement and support healing
- Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen surrounding muscles
- Ergonomic adjustments at work or in sports technique
Advanced Treatments:
- Corticosteroid injections in persistent or severe cases
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy (in some chronic cases)
Surgical Treatment (rare):
- Considered only if conservative measures fail after several months
- Aimed at removing degenerated tendon tissue or relieving tension (3)
Living With Wrist Tendonitis
Wrist tendonitis can affect work, hobbies, and daily routines-but it’s manageable with the right strategies.
To live well with wrist tendonitis:
- Use ergonomic tools (keyboards, mouse, braces) to reduce strain
- Take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks
- Perform daily stretching and strengthening exercises recommended by a physical therapist
- Avoid sudden wrist movements or heavy lifting
- Track symptoms and adjust activities accordingly
- Follow up regularly with your doctor or therapist for flare-up prevention
Many people recover fully with rest and proper care, but long-term success depends on lifestyle adjustments and consistent wrist care (3).
References
1. McAuliffe, J. A. (2010). Tendon disorders of the hand and wrist. The Journal of hand surgery, 35(5), 846-853.
2. Daenen, B., Houben, G., Bauduin, E., Debry, R., & Magotteaux, P. (2004). Sonography in wrist tendon pathology. Journal of Clinical Ultrasound, 32(9), 462-469.
3. Armstrong, T. J., Fine, L. J., Goldstein, S. A., Lifshitz, Y. R., & Silverstein, B. A. (1987). Ergonomics considerations in hand and wrist tendinitis. The Journal of hand surgery, 12(5), 830-837.
