Paul Nielsen, MD
Orthopaedic Surgeon
December 23, 2019
What Are the Symptoms of Wrist Tendonitis?
- Pain along the side of the wrist
- Using the hand usually worsens the pain
- Swelling frequently occurs
- Pain often develops slowly over time
What Causes Wrist Tendonitis?
- Overuse often causes inflammation and swelling around the tendons
- Changes in activity often set this off
- Often occurs during or after pregnancy as well
- A tunnel at the wrist normally help hold the tendons in place
- The swollen, inflamed tendon becomes painful in the tunnel
- Some patients have tighter tunnels, making them more likely to develop this
What Are the Treatment Options for Wrist Tendonitis?
- Steroid injections around the swollen tendon can reduce the swelling
- These injections often resolve the symptoms
- Splinting can reduce the inflammation around the tendon
- NSAIDS such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or meloxicam can decrease inflammation and pain
- Surgery is an option if pain does not improve
- A small incision is made to open the tunnel around the tendon
- The surgery is usually performed with just local anesthesia in about 10 minutes
- No IV, no fasting, and no recovery from anesthesia medicines
What Is Recovery Like After Surgery?
- Patients normally are in a soft dressing for a few days after surgery
- Sutures are removed 10-14 days after surgery
- Light use of the hand is encouraged immediately after surgery
- Heavy use of the hand is allowed about a month after surgery
- Hand therapy is usually not required
- Recurrence is very uncommon
Recognize the symptoms of wrist tendonitis? Feel free to call New West at 308-865-2570 to make an appointment with Dr. Nielsen today. No referral required.
About the Author
Paul Nielsen, MD is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand & upper extremity surgery at New West Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery in Kearney, NE.
