When is physiotherapy recommended for TFCC tear?

The triangular fibrocartilage complex supports the little-finger side of the wrist and helps with load transfer and forearm rotation. A tear can cause ulnar-sided pain, clicking, reduced grip, or discomfort when turning a key, opening a jar, or pushing up from a chair. Rehabilitation timing depends on the tear, wrist stability, examination findings, and any protection or immobilisation already advised.

During an assessment, the therapist may check wrist and forearm movement, grip function, swelling, and how symptoms respond to load. Early care may prioritise protection, comfortable motion, and maintaining movement in nearby joints. Later work can build wrist and forearm strength, coordination, and tolerance for specific tasks. Avoid lifting, twisting, or weight-bearing that reproduces pain until your clinician gives a safe progression. Read about [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/).

Seek prompt assessment after a major wrist injury, visible deformity, marked swelling, inability to move the wrist, new loss of feeling, or a hand that becomes unusually pale, blue, or cold. Arrange review if clicking is painful, grip is worsening, or symptoms continue despite protection. Do not start strengthening if the wrist has not been assessed for stability.

Ask whether the tear appears stable, how long the wrist should be protected, and which movements are currently allowed. Ask how the rehabilitation plan will progress, what pain response is acceptable, and when work, driving, sport, or lifting can be tested.