Wrist tendonitis is when one or more of the tendons in the wrist become irritated or inflamed, usually from overuse or repetitive strain. Tendons connect muscles to bones, and when they’re overworked, tiny tears and inflammation can develop, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the wrist.
An analogy…
Imagine the tendon like a rope sliding through a tight tunnel. If the rope is used too much, it starts to fray and rub, making movement painful, that’s what happens in wrist tendonitis.
What are other names that wrist tendonitis can be called?
Wrist Tendinitis, Wrist Tendinopathy
What causes wrist tendonitis?
The wrist contains multiple tendons that control movements of the hand and fingers. These tendons run through tight spaces called sheaths, and when overused (especially with repetitive hand, wrist, or forearm motions), they can become inflamed. This creates friction, which leads to pain, swelling, and reduced function.
What are the signs and symptoms of wrist tendonitis?
- Pain in the wrist (on the front or back), especially with movement
- Swelling or thickening over the tendon
- Pain worsens with gripping, lifting, or twisting
- Tenderness when pressing on the affected tendon
- A feeling of tightness or stiffness, especially after rest
- Sometimes a creaking or snapping sensation with movement
What tests are used to diagnose wrist tendonitis?
Palpation: pressing over the tendons to check for pain or swelling
Range of motion tests: moving the wrist or fingers to reproduce symptoms
Resisted movements: pain with resistance confirms involvement of specific tendons
How long does wrist tendonitis take to heal?
Mild cases may settle in 2 to 4 weeks with rest and proper care. Moderate to more persistent cases can take 6 to 8 weeks, especially if inflammation is ongoing or if habits haven’t been adjusted. In chronic cases or if left untreated, wrist tendonitis can become long-standing and take several months to fully resolve.
How does wrist tendonitis happen?
- Repetitive wrist or hand movements
- Sudden increase in training or work load
- Poor wrist or hand posture at a desk or in sport
- Tight or weak forearm muscles
- Previous wrist injuries or poor movement patterns
- Manual labour, weightlifting, or certain sports like tennis or rowing
What treatment can help wrist tendonitis?
- Rest from aggravating activities
- Ice and anti-inflammatory medication to settle inflammation
- Wrist brace or taping to limit stress on the tendon
- Manual therapy (massage, dry needling, stretching) for surrounding muscles
- Stretching and eccentric strengthening exercises for the wrist and forearm
- Ergonomic and technique corrections for work or sport
What exercises or stretches can I do for wrist tendonitis?
- Wrist flexor and extensor stretches
- Isometric wrist exercises
- Eccentric strengthening
- Grip strengthening using therapy putty or light resistance
- Posture and shoulder control drills to offload wrist strain
- Activity-specific retraining for lifting, typing, or sport
What products can help with wrist tendonitis?