14/05/2025
📃The Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) is a crucial structure in the wrist, providing stability and load-bearing support between the ulna and the carpal bones. A TFCC tear can cause significant pain and dysfunction, affecting daily activities and sports performance.
📌Mechanism of Injury
TFCC tears can result from:
➡️Trauma – A fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH), excessive wrist twisting, or sudden forceful grip.
➡️Degeneration – Age-related wear and tear, repetitive wrist movements, or chronic overuse.
📌Symptoms
➡️Ulnar-sided wrist pain (pain on the little finger side)
➡️ Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations in the wrist
➡️Weak grip strength
➡️Pain aggravated by rotation or weight-bearing on the wrist
📌Special Tests
➡️ TFCC Load Test – Ulnar deviation with axial load and rotation
➡️ Press Test – Pain with pushing up from a chair using hands
➡️ Fovea Sign – Tenderness at the TFCC region
➡️Ulnar Grind Test – Pain with pronation and supination under load
📌Physical Therapy management
👉Modalities & Equipment:
Ice or ultrasound for pain relief
Wrist brace for immobilization in acute cases
Electrical stimulation for pain control
👉Exercise & Rehabilitation Plan:
➡️Early Phase (Pain & Inflammation Control)
• Wrist splinting for protection
• Gentle passive range of motion (ROM) exercises
➡️Intermediate Phase (Strength & Stability)
• Isometric strengthening of wrist flexors & extensors
• Proprioceptive training using a stability ball or Theraband
➡️Advanced Phase (Functional Rehab & Return to Activity)
• Weight-bearing exercises (e.g., modified push-ups)
• Grip and forearm strengthening (e.g., wrist curls, pronation/supination exercises)
• Sport or work-specific drills