- Pain significantly reduces
- Grip strength improves
- Wrist stability returns
- Sports activity resumes
- Quality of life improves
Delay in treatment may lead to chronic problems. Early consultation ensures better outcomes.
Common Myths About TFCC Injury
Myth 1: Wrist pain is always simple sprain
Truth: Persistent ulnar side wrist pain may be TFCC tear.
Myth 2: Surgery means large cut
Truth: Arthroscopy is minimally invasive.
Myth 3: MRI is not necessary
Truth: MRI helps confirm exact diagnosis.
Myth 4: Pain will automatically go away
Truth: Untreated TFCC tear can worsen.
When Should You Immediately Consult a Wrist Specialist?
- Severe wrist pain after fall
- Pain lasting more than 2 weeks
- Clicking sensation in wrist
- Weak grip strength
- Swelling not reducing
- Difficulty in daily activities
Early expert consultation prevents complications.
Conclusion: Do Not Ignore Ulnar Side Wrist Pain
TFCC injury of the wrist is a common but often misdiagnosed condition. Proper clinical examination, MRI confirmation and timely treatment are key to complete recovery.
If you are suffering from wrist pain after injury or sports activity, do not self-medicate for months. Get your wrist evaluated by a specialist.
For advanced TFCC tear treatment and wrist arthroscopy surgery in Nagpur, consult Dr. Vishal Sahni at London Orthopaedic Clinic. Accurate diagnosis, personalised care and international-standard treatment can help you return to pain-free life.
Book your consultation today and take the first step towards strong, stable and pain-free wrist movement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – TFCC Injury of the Wrist
1. What is a TFCC injury of the wrist?
A TFCC injury refers to a tear or damage in the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex, which is located on the little finger side of the wrist. It helps in stabilising the wrist joint and acts as a shock absorber. When this structure gets injured, it causes ulnar side wrist pain, weakness and difficulty in twisting movements.
2. What are the main symptoms of a TFCC tear?
Common symptoms of TFCC tear include:
- Pain on the small finger side of the wrist
- Pain while rotating or twisting the wrist
- Clicking or popping sensation
- Weak grip strength
- Swelling in wrist
- Feeling of wrist instability
If these symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, you should consult a wrist specialist.
3. How do I know if my wrist pain is due to TFCC injury?
If you have wrist pain after a fall, sports injury or heavy lifting, especially on the ulnar side, it may be a TFCC injury. A proper clinical examination and MRI scan are required to confirm the diagnosis. An experienced orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Vishal Sahni can evaluate and guide you
4. Is TFCC injury visible on X-ray?
No, TFCC is a soft tissue structure and cannot be seen on a normal X-ray. However, X-ray helps to rule out fractures and bone alignment issues. MRI scan is the best test to diagnose TFCC tear.
5. Can a TFCC tear heal without surgery?
Yes, many small or partial TFCC tears can heal with non-surgical treatment such as:
- Wrist rest
- Wrist brace or splint
- Anti-inflammatory medicines
- Physiotherapy
- Activity modification
If pain continues even after proper treatment for 6–8 weeks, surgery may be required.
6. When is TFCC surgery necessary?
TFCC surgery is recommended if:
- Pain does not improve with conservative treatment
- MRI shows a significant tear
- Wrist instability is present
- Daily activities are severely affected
- Patient is an athlete needing full wrist function
Early decision prevents long-term wrist damage.
7. What is wrist arthroscopy for TFCC repair?
Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive keyhole surgery used to treat TFCC tear. Small cuts are made and a tiny camera is inserted to repair or trim the torn tissue. It results in less pain, smaller scar and faster recovery.
At London Orthopaedic Clinic, advanced arthroscopic wrist surgery is performed for precise treatment.
8. Is TFCC surgery painful?
Since TFCC surgery is done using minimally invasive arthroscopy, post-operative pain is usually less compared to open surgery. Proper pain management and physiotherapy ensure comfortable recovery.
9. How long does it take to recover after TFCC surgery?
Recovery time depends on the type of surgery:
- Debridement: 2–4 weeks for routine activities
- TFCC repair: 6 weeks immobilisation and full recovery in 3–4 months
Strict physiotherapy is important for best results.
10. Can I return to sports after TFCC tear treatment?
Yes, most patients can return to sports after proper treatment and rehabilitation. Athletes usually return within 3–4 months after repair surgery, depending on healing and strength recovery.
11. What happens if TFCC injury is left untreated?
Ignoring TFCC injury may lead to:
- Chronic wrist pain
- Reduced grip strength
- Wrist instability
- Early arthritis
- Permanent functional limitation
Timely treatment is very important.
12. Who is the best doctor for TFCC injury treatment in Nagpur?
For expert diagnosis and advanced treatment of TFCC tear and wrist ligament injury, you can consult Dr. Vishal Sahni, Orthopedic Surgeon (MBBS, MS ORTHO, FRCS ORTHO, London. MCH ORTHO, Liverpool) at London Orthopaedic Clinic. He specialises in shoulder, elbow and wrist treatments with focus on minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures