FEATURE Wrist Tendonitis BY LAWRENCE E. WEISS, M.D. OAA Orthopaedic Specialists W rist tendonitis is a cummulative condition that develops from overusing one or more of the tendons that surround the wrist joint. Although any tendon surrounding the wrist can be involved, tendonitis usually occurs where tendons cross each other near the wrist bones. Wrist tendons are fibrous tissues made of collagen that connect the muscles in the forearm to bones in the hand. When functioning properly, tendons glide easily through smooth sheaths that are lubricated with synovial fluid. Repetitive strain or friction can cause inflammation of a tendon within the sheath, resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. 26 Lehigh County Health & Medicine | WINTER 2019