About TFCC Tear:
TFCC or the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex[1] is a cartilaginous structure located around the wrist region which provides support and cushions the carpal bones in the wrist. It also maintains stability of the radius and ulna during grasping and rotating activities of the hands.
Any sort of injury to the TFCC can cause immense pain in the wrists. TFCC tears can be classified[2] as two types namely type I and type II. Type I tears are caused due to any trauma to the wrist region such as falling on an outstretched hand or excessive wrist or arm rotation. Type II TFCC tears are more chronic and occur over a period of time due to degeneration of the ligaments. There are also certain degenerative conditions like arthritis and gout which also can cause a TFCC Tear.
An individual with a history of wrist fractures is also at risk for developing a TFCC tear. In order to identify a TFCC tear, it is extremely essential to know the presenting features of a TFCC tear. .
What are the Presenting Features of a TFCC Tear?[3]
The primary presenting feature of a TFCC tear is pain on the outer portion of the wrist. This pain will be localized and not spread throughout the wrist. It may appear as a constant dull ache which will tend to worsen with any attempts at using the wrist or applying any pressure to the wrist.
Additionally, an individual with a TFCC tear will also experience a clicking or a popping sensation when moving the wrist along with swelling and instability of the wrist. The wrist may feel weak and it will be difficult to grasp any object with the affected wrist. The affected area will feel tender to palpation and there will be warmth in the affected area as a result of swelling and inflammation due to the TFCC tear.
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