The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) consists of the triangular fibrocartilage disc, radioulnar ligaments and ulnoca
rpal ligaments. It stabilises the ulnar side of the wrist and distal radioulnar joint, allowing you to turn your palm up and down with control, weight-bear on your hand, and allow a strong grip.
A triangular fibrocartilage complex injury can occur from falls, twisting something under load or in combination with distal radius/ulnar styloid fractures.
Full tears of the TFCC may require surgery. Partial tears can be treated with a splint and proprioception exercises. Your hand therapist will be able to determine what splint is appropriate for you. Splints may need to be worn for 4 – 8weeks.
Strengthening and proprioception exercises will be important to get you back to function. Specific muscles and ligaments are targeted at providing stability and control.
If you have any questions about a wrist injury and would like to book an appointment with one of our skilled hand therapists, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’d be more than happy to help.