Understanding TFCC Injury, Tenosynovitis, Tennis Elbow & Golf Elbow

“Opening a bottle hurts, turning a doorknob clicks, even holding my phone is painful…”

Wrist pain is becoming a common issue worldwide. Studies show tenosynovitis affects 0.2–2.6% of people (women 6–10 times more than men), and nearly half of adults over 70 experience TFCC injuries. In certain industries, up to 23% of workers report wrist pain. With smartphones and computer use, younger people are increasingly affected too.

Whether you’re an office worker, athlete, new mother or older adult, wrist pain can impact your quality of life. Here are the main culprits:

The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) structure — made up of ligaments, tendons and cartilage — helps support and stabilize your wrist. 

Symptoms: Pain on the little-finger side, clicking sounds, difficulty gripping or rotating.

Causes: Sports injuries, repetitive strain (typing, mouse use), age degeneration or falls.

Treatment: Rest, ice, physiotherapy (shockwave, ultrasound), or surgery in severe cases.

Tenosynovitis is inflammation of the connective tissue that protects your tendons. When this tissue (also called a tendon sheath) is overused, it can become inflamed, leading to pain and stiffness. 

Symptoms: Wrist and finger pain, swelling, stiffness, limited motion.

Causes: Long computer/phone use, poor posture, repetitive work, may also be caused by autoimmune diseases.

Treatment: Rest, hot/cold compress, physiotherapy, steroid injections, or minor surgery if persistent.

• Tennis elbow: Pain on the outer elbow from repetitive strain (e.g., racket sports, manual work).

• Golf elbow: Pain on the inner elbow, often from repeated bending/rotation.

• Treatment: Rest, physiotherapy (exercise, shockwave, ultrasound), and surgery if conservative care fails.

At Am-Sino Healthcare Rehabilitation Center, Dr. Gong Shuna and her team use international rehabilitation standards to deliver evidence-based, safe, and personalized treatment plans. Their approach combines sports medicine expertise, advanced equipment, and tailored recovery programs to restore function and prevent further injury.

Wrist pain isn’t just a nuisance- it can severely impact your daily life. Early assessment and treatment are key to long-term recovery.

Feel free to reach out to our customer support team to schedule a consultation and receive personalized assistance.

WeChat Enquiries

& Appointments