TFCC Injury
Pain on the pinky side of your wrist?
Difficulty pushing yourself up from a chair, turning a key, or lifting objects?
A TFCC injury is a common cause of ulnar-sided wrist pain.
Understanding the symptoms and how to test your wrist can help you recover safely.
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What is a TFCC Injury?
The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a small but important structure on the pinky side of the wrist. It helps stabilize the wrist joint and cushions load between the forearm and hand.
A TFCC injury can happen after a fall on an outstretched hand, a sudden twist (for example when lifting), or from repetitive strain. Typical complaints include ulnar-sided wrist pain, weakness, and a feeling of instability when gripping or rotating the wrist.
Key point: TFCC injuries often cause pain during gripping, twisting, and weight-bearing through the wrist.
TFCC Injury Symptoms
Symptoms of a TFCC tear can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Most people experience pain on the pinky side of the wrist, especially during movement or load-bearing.
Common symptoms
• Pain on the ulnar (pinky) side of the wrist
• Pain when gripping or twisting
• Clicking or catching sensation
• Weakness during lifting
• Discomfort when pushing yourself up from a chair
Symptoms that may indicate a more severe tear
• Persistent swelling
• Feeling of instability in the wrist
• Reduced range of motion
• Pain during weight-bearing activities
• Symptoms lasting several weeks without improvement
Diagnosis & Test
A TFCC injury is often diagnosed based on your symptoms and a clinical wrist exam. Your clinician may use specific movements to reproduce pain on the ulnar (pinky) side of the wrist. In some cases, imaging is used to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other causes.
Clinical exam
A clinician checks for tenderness on the ulnar side, evaluates stability, and tests movements such as twisting and weight-bearing to see what triggers symptoms.
Imaging
X-rays can help rule out bone-related issues. An MRI may be used to visualize soft tissue structures like the TFCC, especially if symptoms persist.
A simple self-check
If ulnar-sided wrist pain increases when you twist (like turning a key) or when you push up from a chair, it may point toward TFCC involvement. If pain is sharp or worsening, stop and seek professional assessment.
Note: This information is not a medical diagnosis. If you have persistent pain, swelling, or instability, consult a qualified clinician.
Treatment options
Many TFCC injuries improve with conservative care, especially in the early phase.
• Relative rest and activity modification (avoid painful twisting and weight-bearing)
• Temporary immobilization or supportive bracing
• Anti-inflammatory measures as advised by your clinician
• Hand therapy to restore strength and control when pain settles
When to seek professional assessment
Consider medical evaluation if you experience:
• Persistent pain lasting more than a few weeks
• Noticeable swelling or increasing stiffness
• A feeling of instability or “giving way”
• Pain that limits daily activities or work
• Symptoms after a significant fall or trauma
A clinician can advise the right pathway — from therapy and bracing to imaging or further treatment when needed.
Support your TFCC during daily activities
WristWidget® helps reduce painful load on the TFCC during gripping, twisting, and weight-bearing activities.
• One universal size (adjustable fit)
• Available in black
• Also available as a multipack for clinics and professionals
Single item or multipack available.
