When the tendons around the wrist become inflamed, it can cause a great deal of discomfort. Tendonitis is common in workers whose job tasks require repetitive movement of the wrists. As the condition progresses, it can lead to swelling, severe pain and mobility limitations.
Initially, a doctor may prescribe conservative forms of treatment. This may include medication to relieve pain, applying an ice pack, cortisone injections or immobilizing the wrist with a splint. But special exercises also might help relieve wrist tendonitis. Of course, it’s always best to first consult a physician when trying new exercises.
Exercises That May Help Treat Wrist Tendonitis
Flexing the wrist. Extend your arm straight out. Bend the wrist, so fingers are pointed downward. Then bend the wrist, so they are pointed upward. Do this flexing exercise up to 10 times.
This exercise can be done at a slower pace. When bending the wrist forward, do it as far as the fingers can reach the wrist and hold for several seconds. When bending the wrist upward, go as far back as you can and again, hold for several seconds.
The wrist can be flexed from side to side. Move it to each side rapidly. Again, it can also be done at a slower pace, holding for five seconds when moved to each side.
Stretching the wrist. Extend arm straight out. Use one hand to bend the injured wrist down by pressing on the back of the hand and then holding it for up to 30 seconds. Reverse and use fingers to pull the hand backward, holding for up to 30 seconds.
Place forearm on a table, with the hand extended over the edge. Bend wrist upward so fingers are pointing upwards and hold for several seconds. Then lower the wrist, allowing it to relax. Do this exercise up to 10 times.
Stand in front of a table and place your palms down on it. Make sure hands are flat and elbows are straight. Lean forward, using your body weight to stretch the wrists, and hold for up to 30 seconds.
Collecting Workers’ Compensation for Wrist Tendonitis
If wrist tendonitis progresses to a point that the injured worker is not able to perform his/her job tasks, the worker may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers may qualify for temporary disability benefits while unable to work or while performing other tasks at a lower wage, or they may qualify for permanent benefits if there is a permanent impairment. IN FACT, even if there is no lost time, you may still be entitled to a monetary award if the wrist tendonitis results in a permanent loss of funciton of the wrist.
Of course, workers’ compensation covers any treatment costs related to the injury. Workers must prove that their condition is related to their work and job tasks – such as by demonstrating that the repetitive movements they perform every day at work caused the injury.
Talk to an attorney at Markhoff & Mittman in New York City to learn more about workers’ compensation eligibility and whether you qualify. Call us at 866-205-2415 or 866-205-2415, or fill out our contact form to schedule your free initial consultation.
