About TFCC Injuries
The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a group of cartilage and ligaments on the little-finger side of the wrist. It cushions the small bones of the wrist, stabilizes the forearm bones where they meet the wrist and allows you to rotate your forearm and grip with confidence.
A TFCC injury can happen suddenly, such as a fall onto an outstretched hand or a forceful twist of the wrist, or build gradually from repetitive gripping, lifting and racquet or club sports. It can also develop with age as the cartilage wears down.
Many people with TFCC irritation feel pain on the outer side of the wrist, especially when turning a doorknob, pushing up from a chair or lifting a pot. Some notice clicking, a feeling of weakness or reduced grip strength. An accurate assessment helps separate a TFCC problem from other causes of wrist pain.
Common Signs of a TFCC Injury
Symptoms often include pain or tenderness on the little-finger side of the wrist, swelling, a clicking or catching sensation, and pain with twisting, pushing or weight-bearing through the hand. Pain may be worse after activity and ease with rest, which can lead to it being ignored until it becomes harder to manage.
Because several wrist structures sit close together, it is important to have the wrist properly assessed. Your physiotherapist will review how the injury happened, test movement and strength and, if needed, refer you for imaging or to a physician.
How Physiotherapy Helps TFCC Injuries
Many TFCC injuries improve with a structured, non-surgical rehabilitation plan. Your physiotherapist will help settle pain and irritation, protect the wrist from aggravating movements and guide you through a gradual return to normal use.
Treatment may include hands-on therapy, forearm and wrist mobility work, progressive strengthening for the forearm and grip, and advice on bracing or taping when appropriate. We also look at how you use your hands at work, in the gym and in sport so we can adjust technique and load.
If surgery is needed, we work with your surgeon’s protocol to guide you through post-surgical rehabilitation and restore strength, movement and confidence.
When to Book a Visit
Book an assessment if wrist pain lasts more than a few days, keeps you from gripping or lifting, or returns every time you go back to your usual activity. Early care often means a faster, simpler recovery.
At Premier Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine in Vaughan, ON, we will build a plan around your goals, whether that is getting back to work, the gym or the court.
Your Next Steps…
- Request An Appointment
- Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
- Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
- Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free
