How long does a cortisone injection take to work for a TFCC tear?

The injection is intended to reduce inflammation and pain near the triangular fibrocartilage complex. It does not stitch or rebuild a torn structure. Some people notice a short-lived increase in soreness after the injection, and local anaesthetic can create brief early relief that fades before cortisone takes effect.

Improvement depends on whether the tear is stable, how much the wrist is being loaded, and whether another problem contributes to pain. Less pain does not mean the wrist is ready for lifting, twisting, or sport.

Follow instructions about rest, a wrist brace, and returning to activity. Avoid repeatedly testing the wrist while waiting for relief; gripping, forceful rotation, and weight-bearing through the hand can keep symptoms active. Once pain settles, guided exercises can restore motion and strength without overloading the injured area.

Record whether pain, clicking, grip strength, and movement are changing over the following days. Arrange follow-up if relief is absent, brief, or not enough for ordinary tasks, because a TFCC tear may need a different treatment plan.

Seek prompt medical advice for increasing swelling, spreading redness, fever, drainage, severe pain, new numbness, or fingers that become pale, blue, or unusually cold after the injection. Contact the treating clinician if the wrist suddenly loses strength or movement, or if an injury leaves it unstable.

Ask whether the injection was placed for inflammation around the TFCC or to test the source of pain, how long to use a brace, which wrist movements to avoid, and when reassessment or imaging is needed if symptoms continue.