HAVE YOU HEARD OF GYMNAST'S WRIST?

What is 'Gymnasts wrist'?

Gymnasts wrist is irritation and inflammation of the growth plate at the end of the forearm bone where it connects to the wrist. In children the bones grow from areas called growth plates which are made of softer and more vulnerable cartilage than mature bone.

What causes gymnast's wrist?

Gymnasts wrist is essentially an overuse injury that occurs in up to 40% of young gymnasts. It is most likely to occur during an intense period of activity such as when a gymnast moves to a higher competitive level.

High impact activities like tumbling and vaulting put an especially large amount of compressive force on the growth plate of the wrist.

Does it cause long term problems?

​If not treated properly, gymnasts wrist can cause the growth plate of the affected bone (radius) to close sooner than it should.

When this happens and the other forearm bone continues to grow you can end up with an asymmetry of the forearm bones and long term chronic wrist pain.

Common symptoms of Gymnasts wrist

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Common symptoms include pain with impact activities as well as local stiffness and swelling.
Xrays can confirm diagnosis by showing widening of the growth plate.
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What should I do to manage my wrist pain?

​It is best managed by a short period of rest from impact activities as well as regular icing. Pushing through the pain will only make the injury worse and sometimes a wrist brace can be helpful to aid rest..

Once the inflammation has settled impact activities should be added back in slowly and gradually as guided by your symptoms and your hand therapist. They may also recommend taping or use of tiger paw (TM) wrist supports to limit impact and hyperextension.

​Exercises to strengthen your forearm and upper body can help the body's ability to absorb impact whilst tumbling and prevent reinjury.
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Can't I just push through it?

As an athlete you are no doubt used to your muscles hurting sometimes from training. But is is really important to note that you shouldn't train with pain in your wrist. 

Unlike muscle soreness after exercise, pain in a gymnasts wrist is a sign of stress and overuse and it requires rest and professional management. Your hand therapist may need to work with your coach to ensure you getting your training levels just right as you resume activity.

If you or someone you know may have gymnast's wrist- be sure to get it checked properly out. 

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