The Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex or TFCC is a small group of structures within the ulnar side of our wrist. The TFCC stabilises and distributes load between our wrist and hand. Irritation or tear of the cartilage may lead to pain in this region. A quick test which might help you diagnose a TFCC injury can be found in the link below:
Depending on the severity of injury to the TFCC, management of this condition usually involves avoiding aggravating positions and strengthening our wrist to offload the pressure on the irritated cartilage. There are a couple of taping techniques that can also be used to offload our TFCC while playing sport. Find an example in the link below:
If you are finding these strategies are not reducing your TFCC pain, there may be room for use of anti-inflammatories or injections which should be discussed with your medical professional. Additionally, we usually recommend trialling conservative management of this condition before opting for surgery, as this may lead to scarring of the cartilage which may cause further complications.
For more information or guidance on physiotherapy treatment, contact us at (08) 8267 6432 or email us at physio@bodyfit.life.
Written By:
Luke Chetcuti,
Sports Physiotherapist, Body Fit Physiotherapy