Wrist Conditions in Miami, FL

Wrist Masses
(Ganglion Cysts, Synovial Cysts, and Benign and Malignant Masses)

Wrist masses are abnormal tissue growths that develop in the wrist area, often presenting as swellings along tendons or joints. Common benign wrist masses include ganglion cysts (fluid-filled lumps associated with joints or tendons) and synovial cysts (sac-like growths filled with fluid). Malignant masses, like sarcomas or carcinomas, can also occur in the wrist, but more rarely. Diagnosing the specific type of wrist mass requires imaging tests and sometimes biopsy to differentiate benign lesions from potentially cancerous ones.

Triangular Fibrocartilage
Complex Tear

The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a cartilage structure on the small finger side of the wrist that cushions and supports the small carpal bones. A TFCC tear is an injury to this structure, usually caused by a fall on an outstretched hand, that can cause pain, clicking/popping, and weakness when gripping. Treatment for a TFCC tear may include rest, splinting, physical therapy, injections, or surgery depending on the severity.

Scapholunate Ligament Injury

The scapholunate ligament connects the scaphoid and lunate bones in the wrist. Injury or tearing of this ligament can lead to instability between these two bones and abnormal wrist mechanics. Scapholunate ligament tears may cause wrist pain, weakness, and arthritis if not treated.

Lunotriquetral Ligament Injury

The lunotriquetral ligament connects the lunate bone to the triquetral bone in the wrist. Injury or degeneration of this ligament can cause instability between these two bones, leading to lunotriquetral instability. This condition causes wrist pain, clicking, and loss of range of motion.

Brachial Plexus Injury

Brachial plexus injury involves damage to the network of nerves that sends signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand. This condition is usually caused by excessive stretching or compression of the brachial plexus, often due to motorcycle accidents, contact sports injuries, and traumatic falls in which the head and neck are forced away from the shoulder. Symptoms of brachial plexus injury include pain, numbness, and weakness or paralysis of the arm and hand.