Wrist tendonitis is a condition where the tendons in your wrist become swollen or irritated, causing pain and limited movement. It often develops from doing the same wrist motions repeatedly or after using your wrist too much in a short period.
Causes of Wrist Tendonitis
Several factors can contribute to the development of wrist tendonitis, often involving repetitive strain or sudden increases in activity.
Repetitive wrist movements: Activities like typing, playing musical instruments, or sports that involve gripping can gradually irritate the tendons over time.
Poor ergonomics at work: Incorrect wrist positioning whilst using computers or tools places additional strain on the tendons, particularly when sustained for long periods.
Age-related changes: Tendons naturally become less flexible as we get older, making them more susceptible to inflammation and injury.
Underlying health conditions: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes can increase your likelihood of developing tendon problems throughout the body.
Symptoms of Wrist Tendonitis
Pain along the thumb side of the wrist: This discomfort typically worsens with gripping activities or when moving your thumb away from your hand.
Swelling and tenderness: The affected area may appear slightly swollen and feel tender to touch, particularly over the tendon pathways.
Stiffness in the morning: Many people notice their wrist feels particularly stiff when they first wake up, with movement gradually improving throughout the day.
Weakness in grip strength: You might find it more difficult to hold objects firmly or experience discomfort when twisting motions like opening jars.
Treatment Options for Wrist Tendonitis
When wrist tendonitis does not improve with rest or basic care, a hand specialist may recommend targeted treatments to reduce inflammation, support tendon healing, and restore function.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Wrist bracing or splinting: A supportive brace can help reduce tendon strain during repetitive tasks or flare-ups.
Physiotherapy: A customised rehabilitation program focuses on improving flexibility, tendon strength, and movement patterns.
Corticosteroid injections: Used selectively to reduce inflammation and relieve persistent pain.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: Involves injecting concentrated components from your own blood to promote tissue healing in chronic cases.
Shockwave therapy: High-energy sound waves are applied to stimulate healing in tendon tissue.
Minimally invasive procedures: Techniques such as needle tenotomy or ultrasound-guided treatment may be used to break down degenerated tendon tissue.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is reserved for cases that do not respond to non-surgical care or where there is significant tendon thickening or degeneration.
Tenosynovectomy: Removal of inflamed or thickened tendon sheath to reduce irritation.
Tendon debridement or repair: Damaged portions of the tendon are removed or repaired to restore function and relieve symptoms.
When to See a Hand Specialist
Wrist tendonitis often improves with rest and basic care, but specialist evaluation may be necessary if symptoms persist or interfere with daily activities.
You should see a hand specialist if you experience:
- Pain that lasts more than a few weeks despite activity modification
- Swelling, warmth, or tenderness that does not improve
- Difficulty with gripping, lifting, or fine motor tasks
- Recurrent flare-ups that affect work, exercise, or routine function
- A history of repetitive strain or wrist overuse with worsening symptoms
Conclusion
Wrist tendonitis can usually be managed effectively with timely treatment and activity adjustments. If symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with your daily function, a hand specialist can provide a thorough assessment and personalised treatment plan.
Schedule a consultation with our hand and wrist specialist in Singapore to explore your treatment options.
