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.

Types of TFCC Injuries

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