right wrist synovitis

Hi there
I have inflammation/fluid in the ECU and first extensor compartment. It occurred due to overuse and overcompensation for my left wrist (tenosynovitis). It started back in June last year, and I was given physio exercises which didn't settle things until I went on holidays for a month. I came back to work and it seemed to be ok for about 3 months. My workload peaked, I was typing more and mousing along with writing notes and my right hand got worse.

I'd like to know if anyone can tell me about the success rates for cortisone injections (ultrasound guided) particularly in wrist joints, and will it be harmful if I've already had one in my other wrist? Of course following cortisone I would expect to continue my hand strength rehab and remedial massage to get rid of the trigger points.

Many thanks for your advice
Angie

Hi,

I do not actually have an opinion on the injection however from the brief history it may be an idea to look at
1. activity modification at work i.e using mouse in left hand (takes some getting used to but the idea is to reduce the worlkload of your right hand), using more shortcuts on keyboard vs clicking on mouse especially in word i.e. ctrl+c for copy ctrl+z for paste. These can be found on the interweb.
2. Workstation set up i.e. either getting a consultant to review your desk set up so that is appropriate for your height and stature; something like a computer microdesk can help so that the keyboard slides under the microdesk and you can write on top which avoids stretching out to type. Checking the height of the desk and chair making sure that your knees and elbows are 90 degrees and that your wrist isnt resting on the mouse or keyboard as that encourages an extended posture.
3. Posture and stretching: so getting out of the slumped/ flexed posture and sitting upright as often as posture and stretching frequently is also helpful in reducing the tightness of all your muscles and improve bloodflow.

It may seem like an quick and easy fix to get an injection however unless you change your environment, posture and behaviours I am afraid that your condition will continue to be persist unless it is addressed along side medical treatment. I hope that makes sense? I also hope that you have access to these services?

Hope that helps.

K