Wrist Fourth Extensor Compartment Tenosynovitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Reviewed By – Dr. Sameer Gohir
PhD, MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN
What Is Wrist Extensor Tenosynovitis of the 4th Extensor Compartment?
Wrist extensor tenosynovitis of the 4th extensor compartment is a condition characterized by inflammation of the tendons located in the fourth compartment on the back of the wrist.
These tendons, primarily the extensor digitorum, are responsible for extending the fingers and wrist. They are covered by a sheath, and when this sheath becomes inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the wrist and fingers.
If wrist pain, swelling, or discomfort is making it difficult to grip objects or perform daily tasks due to fourth extensor compartment tenosynovitis, know that help is available. At Joint Injection Clinic near Kent and Essex, we provide targeted care to ease wrist pain and restore hand movement effectively.
Common Causes of Fourth Extensor Compartment Tenosynovitis
This type of tenosynovitis is commonly caused by repetitive motions or overuse of the wrist and fingers. Activities that involve repeated wrist extension or gripping can put excessive strain on these tendons, leading to inflammation. Examples include certain sports, manual labor, or even prolonged computer use.
Other factors that can contribute to the development of 4th compartment tenosynovitis include:
Treatment Options for Fourth Extensor Compartment Tenosynovitis
Treatment for wrist extensor tenosynovitis of the 4th extensor compartment typically begins with conservative methods aimed at reducing inflammation and pain.
If conservative treatments do not provide relief after a few weeks, surgical intervention may be considered.
In cases where an underlying inflammatory or infectious cause is identified, treatment will also focus on managing that condition. Following surgery, a period of immobilization and subsequent physiotherapy may be necessary to regain full function and strength in the wrist. Accurate diagnosis, sometimes aided by imaging like ultrasound or MRI, is important to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms and to guide appropriate treatment.
Treatment plans are often tailored to the individual, taking into account the severity of the condition, the underlying cause, and how well the patient responds to initial therapies. Surgery is generally reserved for cases that do not improve with conservative management.
Get Help for Fourth Extensor Compartment Tenosynovitis at Joint Injection Clinic
Struggling with pain or swelling along the back of your wrist while lifting, typing, or using your hand? Fourth extensor compartment tenosynovitis can impact work, hobbies, and daily activities, but you don’t have to let it limit you.
At Joint Injection Clinic, our team of musculoskeletal specialists offers personalised, evidence-based treatments designed to reduce wrist pain and inflammation, helping you return to your usual activities without discomfort.
We welcome patients at all three of our clinics:
Dartford Clinic – ideal for those in Kent and South East London
Address: Unit 30, 1st Floor, The Base Dartford Business Park, Victoria Road, Dartford, DA1 5FS.
Romford Clinic – easily accessible from Essex and Greater London
Address: Room no 8, Alliance Office Space 2-4 Eastern Road, Romford, Essex, RM1 3PJ.
Canterbury Clinic – serving East Kent and surrounding areas
Address: 12-17 Upper Bridge Street, Canterbury, CT1 2NF, United Kingdom.
Using ultrasound-guided assessments for accurate diagnosis and targeted injection therapies where appropriate, along with tailored rehabilitation plans, we support your recovery so you can regain confidence in your hand and wrist function.