Wrist Pain / TFCC Injury
Expert care for Wrist Pain / TFCC Injury at Gentle Care Chiropractic in West Linn, Oregon.
Understanding Wrist Pain / TFCC Injury
Also known as: Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Injury, Ulnar-Sided Wrist Pain The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a small but critical structure on the pinky side of your wrist — a disc of cartilage and associated ligaments that cushions the joint, stabilizes the forearm bones where they meet the wrist, and allows smooth rotation. Because it's both small and load-bearing, it's vulnerable to injury from falls, forceful twists, and repetitive rotation under load. TFCC injuries are one of the more frequently missed diagnoses in wrist pain, partly because the structure doesn't show reliably on plain X-rays. Sharp aching on the pinky side of the wrist with rotation, clicking or catching when turning a doorknob or pouring a pitcher, and weakness with gripping are characteristic.
Push-ups, yoga poses, and racquet sports often flare symptoms. Many patients describe a feeling that the wrist "can't trust itself" under load. A fall on an outstretched hand, racquet and stick sports, gymnastics, and repetitive forceful rotation are common triggers. We assess whether pain is primarily cartilage-driven, ligamentous, or joint-surface related.
Gentle carpal and distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ — the joint where the forearm bones meet at the wrist) mobilization restores accessory motion. IASTM addresses restricted soft tissue. Wrist taping offloads the TFCC during healing while we guide progressive wrist and grip strengthening. Class IV laser supports tissue recovery.
Most TFCC irritations respond to six to twelve weeks of structured care. When mechanism or exam suggests fracture, significant ligamentous injury, or instability, we arrange imaging and orthopedic referral promptly. We may recommend: extremity adjustments, mobilization, Graston/IASTM, kinesio taping, Class IV laser, corrective exercise, ergonomic coaching Seek immediate care if: You have significant swelling and deformity after a fall, inability to bear weight or grip, or numbness in the hand.
How We Can Help
At Gentle Care Chiropractic, we take a multi-disciplinary approach — addressing the root cause of your condition, not just the symptoms.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Precise spinal and joint corrections to restore alignment, relieve nerve pressure, and reduce pain — manual or instrument-assisted based on your needs.
Massage Therapy
Therapeutic massage releases muscle tension, improves circulation to injured tissue, and works synergistically with adjustments for faster recovery.
Physical Rehabilitation
Customized exercise programs strengthen supporting muscles, restore range of motion, and help prevent future flare-ups.
Laser Therapy
Cold laser therapy uses targeted light wavelengths to stimulate cellular healing, reduce inflammation, and relieve deep tissue pain without heat or discomfort.
Electrical Stimulation
E-stim therapy reduces pain and muscle spasm, improves circulation, and supports the healing process — especially effective for acute injuries.
Personalized Care Plan
Every patient is different. We combine these therapies in a plan tailored to your diagnosis, goals, and lifestyle for the best possible outcome.
Ready to Find Relief?
You don't have to live with Wrist Pain / TFCC Injury. Our team at Gentle Care Chiropractic is here to help you recover and get back to doing what you love.