Wrist Cartilage & Ligament Complex | Supports Rotation & Stability

The Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) is a network of cartilage and ligaments located on the ulnar (little finger) side of the wrist.

It plays a critical role in:

• Stabilising the wrist joint
• Supporting forearm rotation (pronation & supination)
• Absorbing shock during weight-bearing activities
• Distributing load across the wrist

When injured, the TFCC can disrupt normal wrist mechanics, leading to pain, weakness, reduced function, and joint instability.

Traumatic Tears (Class 1) | Degenerative Tears (Class 2)

Falls & Wrist Trauma | Repetitive Rotation | Sports & Work Strain

Common causes include:

• Fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH)
• Forceful twisting or rotation of the wrist
• Repetitive wrist movements (typing, tools, sports)
• Racquet sports, cricket, and weightlifting
• Occupational strain (mechanics, carpenters, office work)

Athletes | Workers | Everyday Individuals

TFCC injuries are not limited to athletes. High-risk groups include:

• Sports players (tennis, badminton, cricket, gymnasts)
• Manual workers (plumbers, electricians, carpenters)
• Office professionals (keyboard & mouse overuse)
• Homemakers (lifting and twisting tasks)
• Older adults (degenerative changes)

Ulnar Wrist Pain | Clicking | Weak Grip

Watch for:

• Pain on the little finger side of the wrist
• Clicking, catching, or instability
• Weak grip strength
• Pain during rotation (opening jars, turning keys)
• Difficulty bearing weight on the wrist
• Swelling and restricted movement

Clinical Testing | Movement Analysis | Accurate Evaluation

At Active Life Physiotherapy, diagnosis includes:

• Detailed injury history
• TFCC-specific clinical tests
• Wrist and forearm movement analysis
• Grip strength assessment
• DRUJ (Distal Radioulnar Joint) stability check

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective wrist ligament injury treatment.

Immobilisation | Manual Therapy | Electrotherapy

Our evidence-based approach includes:

• Wrist splinting or immobilisation (if required)
• Manual therapy to restore joint mobility
• Electrotherapy (IFT, TENS, ultrasound) for pain relief
• Soft tissue release to reduce muscle tension

Range of Motion | Strength & Stability Training

A structured TFCC rehabilitation exercise program focuses on:

• Restoring wrist mobility
• Improving grip strength
• Strengthening wrist stabilisers
• Gradual loading of the TFCC

This forms the foundation of effective wrist cartilage tear therapy.

Forearm Control | Wrist Stabilisation

Specialised exercises target:

• Forearm rotation control
• Joint stability during movement
• Prevention of reinjury

Step-by-Step Recovery Plan

• Phase 1: Pain Management & Protection
• Phase 2: Mobility & Early Strengthening
• Phase 3: Strength & Stability Building
• Phase 4: Functional Recovery & Return to Activity

Each phase is customised to ensure safe, effective, and optimal recovery.

Conservative First | Surgery When Needed

Most TFCC injuries respond well to physiotherapy.

Non-Surgical Treatment Is Suitable For:

• Partial tears
• Degenerative injuries
• Stable TFCC conditions

Surgery May Be Required If:

• Symptoms persist despite rehabilitation
• Significant instability is present

Physiotherapy is essential both before and after surgery.

• TFCC tears (traumatic & degenerative)
• DRUJ instability
• Ulnar-sided wrist pain
• Post-surgical wrist rehabilitation
• Sports and occupational wrist injuries

Accurate Diagnosis | Advanced Rehab | Personalised Care

• Specialist wrist assessment
• Evidence-based treatment protocols
• Structured rehabilitation programs
• Advanced therapy techniques
• Focus on long-term recovery & prevention