Understanding TFCC Pain and the Mysterious Bump
I'm a 25-year-old woman, standing at 4'11" and weighing 98 pounds, with a diagnosis of ADHD. I'm generally in decent shape and take Adderall daily. About a month ago, I injured the radial side of my wrist and received a budget-friendly brace from my physician. Recently, while tossing my bag over my shoulder, I experienced a sudden, sharp sensation on the outer part of my wrist that has persisted since then. Concerned, I went to the emergency room, where x-rays confirmed that there were no fractures. Following that, I was referred to an occupational therapist, who suggested that I might have a tear or sprain in the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC). However, she mentioned that diagnosing it accurately would require an MRI, which I am eagerly trying to obtain, but navigating the referral process is stressful. Initially, the pain in my TFCC was acute, especially when twisting my wrist, but it has since changed into a constant dull ache. Additionally, I have discovered a bump on my wrist that appeared about a week after my visit to the occupational therapist. This bump feels firm and is painful when pressure is applied. I’m looking for information to calm my worries regarding this new development, as my occupational therapist did not bring it up during our discussions. I appreciate any insights you can provide! Thank you in advance!
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 4:00:48 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with some concerning wrist issues related to your earlier injury and are understandably worried about the new bump on your wrist. Let’s address your concerns regarding the TFCC pain and the bump you’ve noticed.
Main Points:
- TFCC Pain: The pain could be a sign of a TFCC injury, which can cause significant discomfort, especially during twisting motions.
- Bump Concerns: The firm and painful bump could be related to inflammation, a ganglion cyst, or another condition that merits further investigation.
Explanation:
The TFCC (triangular fibrocartilage complex) acts as a cushion between the wrist bones and helps stabilize the joint. Injuries to this area can result in pain, swelling, and difficulty with wrist movements. The persistent dull ache and the new bump you’ve described may indicate swelling or an accumulation of fluid, which can happen with soft tissue injuries.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Maintain Rest and Immobilization: Continue using the brace to reduce wrist movement and allow it to heal. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, especially those involving twisting or lifting heavy objects.
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Apply Ice: Regularly apply ice to the affected area (15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day) to help reduce swelling and pain.
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Monitor the Bump: Keep an eye on the bump. If it increases in size, becomes more painful, or changes in character (e.g., turning red), that could indicate a need for prompt evaluation.
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Pain Management: Consider over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen if you’re comfortable taking them, ensuring you follow the recommended dosages, especially while on Adderall.
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Follow Up for MRI: Stay firm in pursuing the MRI recommendation from your occupational therapist. This imaging could provide essential insights into the extent of any injuries and guide further treatment. If navigating referrals is stressful, consider asking your physician for assistance or looking into alternative imaging centers.
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Reach Out: If you have significant changes in symptoms—like increased pain, loss of function, or any new symptoms—contact your occupational therapist or physician promptly.
Your feelings of concern are valid, especially with pain and new symptoms. Stay proactive in caring for your wrist, and don’t hesitate to reach out for medical support when needed. If you have more questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask!
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