Wrist Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Have you ever experienced sudden pain or stiffness in your wrist? Perhaps after hours of typing, using a computer mouse for graphic design, or engaging in repetitive tasks like gripping or throwing? If this sounds familiar, you might be at risk of wrist tendonitis, a condition that can significantly impact your daily activities and work performance.

What is Wrist Tendonitis?

Wrist tendonitis (or tendinitis) refers to the inflammation of the tendons in the wrist. This inflammation often occurs when the tendons rub against bones or other tissues due to injuries or repetitive movements. As the condition worsens, it can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness, making it difficult to perform simple tasks.

According to Healthline, wrist tendonitis typically arises when tendons in the wrist area become irritated from overuse or repetitive strain. Medical News Today also highlights that this inflammation can result from activities that cause the tendons to rub against surrounding tissues like bones.

Wrist tendonitis is not exclusive to the wrist; it can affect other areas of the body as well, including the fingers, elbows, and thighs.

Causes of Wrist Tendonitis

The primary cause of wrist tendonitis is repetitive motion. Over time, repetitive movements can put excessive stress on the tendons, leading to irritation and inflammation. Some common activities and factors that contribute to wrist tendonitis include:

• Computer use (typing, mouse use)

• Sports (particularly tennis, golf, and baseball)

• Physical labor (construction, assembly line work)

• Writing

• Injuries (falling, impact injuries)

• Aging (as tendons lose flexibility)

• Weak wrist posture

• Arthritis or diabetes (which can increase inflammation)

As we age, the flexibility of tendons decreases, making them more prone to strain. Additionally, individuals who perform repetitive tasks or work in awkward positions are at higher risk. For example, jobs involving vibrations, forceful exertions, or frequent reaching can increase the likelihood of developing tendonitis.

Symptoms of Wrist Tendonitis

Identifying wrist tendonitis is relatively easy due to the telltale signs of pain, swelling, and stiffness in the wrist. The pain often becomes more intense when performing tasks that strain the wrist, such as typing, gripping, or using a computer mouse. Other common symptoms include:

• Sore or tender wrist (especially when pressure is applied)

• Mild swelling in the affected area

• A creaking or cracking noise (crepitus) from the inflamed tendon

• Weakness when performing tasks like throwing, typing, or gripping

• Pain that radiates from the wrist to the elbow or hand

• Pain on the thumb side of the wrist (radial side) or the ulnar side

• Persistent pain during everyday activities (pushing, lifting, etc.)

These symptoms can significantly affect both work performance and daily routines, making it essential to address the condition as soon as possible.

Treatment for Wrist Tendonitis

When you experience symptoms of wrist tendonitis, seeking medical attention is important to properly address the issue. Depending on the severity of the condition, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

1. Rest and Splinting: Immobilizing the wrist with splints or braces to reduce strain and promote healing.

2. Stretching and Physical Therapy: Gentle stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.

3. Cold and Heat Therapy: Applying ice packs to reduce swelling and heat pads to relax the muscles.

4. Corticosteroid Injections: In cases of severe inflammation, your doctor may suggest steroid injections to reduce swelling.

5. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These over-the-counter medications help alleviate pain and inflammation.

6. Surgery: In extreme cases, if tendon rupture occurs or other treatments fail, surgery may be required.

Complications of Wrist Tendonitis

If left untreated, wrist tendonitis can lead to further complications, such as tendinosis, which involves degenerative changes in the tendon and abnormal blood vessel growth. This can cause chronic pain and limit the functionality of the wrist, making it even more difficult to perform everyday tasks.

Prevention of Wrist Tendonitis

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Here are some practical steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing wrist tendonitis:

1. Avoid Repetitive Movements: Try to limit repetitive wrist motions and take regular breaks when typing, using a mouse, or engaging in any activity that stresses the wrist.

2. Take Frequent Breaks: If your job involves long periods of computer use or physical activity, be sure to take breaks every 20-30 minutes to stretch and relieve tension.

3. Stretch Regularly: Perform wrist stretches to increase flexibility and reduce the risk of tendon strain. This is especially important after activities that involve gripping or repetitive motions.

4. Correct Ergonomics: Ensure your workstation is set up to promote good posture and reduce strain on your wrists. Using ergonomic tools like an ergonomic keyboard, mouse, and chair can help maintain a natural wrist position.

5. Proper Technique in Sports and Physical Activities: When engaging in sports like tennis or golf, work with a coach to ensure you’re using the correct technique to avoid overstraining your wrists.

6. Strengthen Your Wrists: Incorporate exercises to strengthen your wrist muscles and improve joint stability.

Final Thoughts

Wrist tendonitis can cause significant pain and discomfort, affecting both your work and daily life. By understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, you can take steps to manage the condition effectively. Additionally, implementing preventive measures—such as taking regular breaks, using ergonomic tools, and strengthening your wrist—can help reduce the risk of developing tendonitis.

If you suspect that you have wrist tendonitis, it's essential to consult with a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right approach, you can alleviate the pain and prevent further damage to your tendons.