Wrist tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons in the wrist. Tendons are thick, collagen cords that connect muscles to bone. The wrist tendons surround the wrist joint and control the movements of the fingers, hands and wrists. Repetitive motions or injury can cause them to become inflamed and rub against the bone, resulting in pain and swelling.
What causes wrist tendonitis?
Wrist tendonitis is sometimes referred to as repetitive strain injury (RSI) because it is often caused by day-to-day activities such as using a computer, writing, playing sport or some kind of manual work. However, it can also be caused by injury, certain conditions such as arthritis or diabetes, ageing, weak wrists or poor joint and bone structure.
The tendons of the wrist normally slide smoothly inside a sheath lined with synovial fluid. However, if they become inflamed or injured this sheath can thicken, restricting the tendon’s movement and resulting in pain. Repetitive movements place the tendon under stress and can lead to inflammation.
The condition is sometimes confused with carpal tunnel, however that is caused by the compression of a nerve.
What are the symptoms of wrist tendonitis?
The primary symptoms are a dull ache and stiffness in the wrist, particularly first thing in the morning. Other symptoms include:
- Wrist tenderness which is exacerbated by any form of pressure
- Swelling
- A creaking sound in your wrist
Weakness and an inability to perform certain movements such as typing, gripping, pinching or throwing