Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the Wrist Joint.

INTRODUCTION;

Early Diagnosis & Advanced Physiotherapy Care at Physio360

Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the wrist joint is a serious yet often overlooked orthopaedic condition that can lead to progressive wrist pain, stiffness, loss of grip strength, and functional disability if not treated early. At Physio360, Chennai, we specialise in early diagnosis, non-surgical management, and post-surgical rehabilitation for wrist AVN, helping patients return to pain-free daily activities.

What is Avascular Necrosis of the Wrist?

Avascular Necrosis (AVN) refers to the death of bone tissue due to reduced or interrupted blood supply. In the wrist, AVN most commonly affects:

• Lunate bone → Kienböck’s disease

• Scaphoid bone → Scaphoid AVN

When the blood supply is compromised, the bone weakens, collapses, and may lead to secondary arthritis of the wrist joint.

Common Causes of Wrist AVN

AVN of the wrist can occur due to multiple factors, including:

✔ Previous wrist trauma or fractures (especially scaphoid fractures)

✔ Repetitive wrist stress (sports, manual labour, goalkeepers, gym activities)

✔ Long-term steroid use

✔ Alcohol abuse

✔ Autoimmune disorders

✔ Blood circulation disorders

✔ Idiopathic (no identifiable cause)

At Physio360 Centre in Chennai, we performa detailed clinical assessment to identify the root cause.

Symptoms of Avascular Necrosis of the Wrist

Early symptoms are often subtle and progress gradually:

• Persistent wrist pain (dull aching to severe)

• Pain aggravated by gripping, lifting, and twisting

• Reduced wrist range of motion

• Swelling and tenderness

• Weak grip strength

• Clicking or stiffness in advanced stages

Early diagnosis = better recovery and joint preservation

How is Wrist AVN Diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a combination of:

X-ray – to detect bone collapse (late stages)

MRI – gold standard for early detection

Clinical examination & functional assessment

At Physio360, we collaborate closely with orthopaedic specialists to ensure accurate staging and treatment planning.

Stages of Wrist AVN

Stage 1: Pain present, X-ray normal

Stage 2: Bone sclerosis seen

Stage 3: Bone collapse begins

Stage 4: Secondary wrist arthritis

Physiotherapy is most effective in the early and mid-stages.

Physiotherapy Management at Physio360

At Physio360 – the Best Physiotherapy Centre in Chennai - we focus on pain relief, joint preservation, and functional restoration.

Non-Surgical Physiotherapy Treatment Includes:

• Pain management modalities (IFT, ultrasound, TENS)

• Wrist unloading & activity modification

• Gentle range of motion exercises

• Progressive strengthening of wrist & forearm muscles

• Joint mobilization (stage-specific)

• Grip strength training

• Ergonomic and sports-specific correction

• Return-to-activity rehabilitation

  
  

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation for Wrist AVN

If surgery is required (core decompression, bone grafting, wrist fusion), post-operative physiotherapy is crucial.

At Physio360, Post-Surgical Rehab Focuses On:

✔ Reducing stiffness

✔ Restoring wrist mobility

✔ Preventing muscle wasting

✔ Improving functional hand use

✔ Gradual return to work & sports

Why Choose Physio360 for Wrist AVN?

Experienced physiotherapists

Evidence-based treatment protocols

Advanced pain management techniques

Sports & orthopaedic rehabilitation expertise

Personalised exercise programs

Affordable and result-oriented care

We are trusted as one of the best physiotherapy clinics near you for wrist conditions.

Do’s and Don’ts for Wrist AVN

Do’s:

• Seek early medical attention

• Follow prescribed physiotherapy exercises

• Use wrist support if advised

• Modify daily activities

  
  

Don’ts:

• Ignore persistent wrist pain

• Lift heavy objects without guidance

• Continue high-impact wrist sports during pain

• Delay treatment

  
  

Final Words

Avascular Necrosis of the wrist joint does not mean the end of hand function—with early diagnosis and the right physiotherapy care, joint damage can be minimised and function restored.

Book Your Consultation Today at

Physio360 – Advanced Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre, Chennai

Best physiotherapist for wrist pain.

Expert care for AVN, sports injuries & post-surgical rehab.

Fast recovery, safe treatment & long-term results.

RESEARCH AND REFERENCE ARTICLE ;

1.Concomitant Avascular Necrosis of the Lunate and Proximal Pole of the Scaphoid in a Thalassemia Minor Patient

2.Trigger wrist caused by avascular necrosis of the capitate: a case reporthttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5870218/