A structured non-operative treatment program for traumatic triangular fibrocartilage complex tear: A...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injuries are a frequent cause of ulnar-sided wrist pain.
• Current treatment protocols lack standardization, impacting the quality of care for TFCC injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a standardized rehabilitation regime for TFCC injuries.
• To assess the efficacy of a combined orthoses and exercise program in reducing pain and improving functional performance.

Main Methods:

• A 5-phase rehabilitation program involving orthoses and exercises was implemented.
• Thirty-two subjects with TFCC injuries participated, with progress monitored every 3 weeks.
• Outcome measures included pain scales (NPRS, ADL), wrist range of motion (ROM), functional performance scores (ADL, PRWE), grip strength, and distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions in pain were observed (NPRS: 5.3 to 0.5; ADL pain score: 10 to 19.1).
• Wrist ROM improved by 35%, grip strength increased by 59.5%, and DRUJ stability was re-established.
• Functional performance scores (ADL performance, PRWE) showed significant improvements.

Conclusions:

• The combined use of orthoses and progressive exercises is effective for TFCC injury rehabilitation.
• This program successfully restored DRUJ stability, enhanced wrist strength, and improved overall functional performance.
• The study provides a foundation for a standardized rehabilitation protocol for TFCC injuries.