TFCC
A TFCC (Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex) injury is a piece of cartilage and ligaments on the little side of the wrist. TFCC injuries are usually caused by a fall onto the outstretched hand, swinging a bat/racquet, a violet twist on lifting heavy.
Why Rehab?
If the tears are in the central portion, it has poor blood supply, without treatment, it can become chronic, leading to long-term pain and functional limitation, eg: playing racquet sports is always painful, carrying grocery bag is bothering.
Clinical presentation:
- Pain on the ulnar side of the wrist, near the pinky.
- Pain with wrist rotation, eg: turning a doorknob, opening a bottle, rinsing a cloth
- Passive/active wrist pronation/supination are painful
- Weight bearing through the wrist is painful, eg: push-ups
Treatment Approach
- Wrist brace: there is a specific brace designed for TFCC injuries (that especially for ulnar side support and limits pronation/supination)
- Electrotherapy: TENS + ultrasound therapy
- Dry needling treatment on the forearm muscle
- Weight-bearing progression training: using barbell, dumbbell and body weight.
TFCC Tear from playing pickleball.
TFCC Injuries