Why Does My Wrist Hurt in Tennis?

Tennis can be an incredibly rewarding, but also a very physically demanding sport. From running around the court to the unexpected twists and turns of your wrist, it’s no wonder that some players experience wrist pain during and after a match. If you’re wondering why your wrist hurts in tennis and how to avoid it, keep reading.

What Causes Wrist Pain in Tennis?

There are a few common causes for wrist pain in tennis. Most of the time, the pain is caused by overuse injuries, resulting from repetitive motions and poor technique. Common overuse injuries include:

• Tendinitis – Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the wrist.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a compression of the median nerve in the wrist, which can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the wrist and hand.
• Stress Fractures – Stress fractures are tiny cracks or breaks in the bones of the wrist, which can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness.

Preventing Wrist Pain in Tennis

Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to prevent wrist pain in tennis.

1. Improve Your Technique

One of the most effective ways to reduce wrist pain in tennis is to improve your technique. Make sure you’re using a loose grip on your racket and making full swings with your arm. This will help reduce the strain on your wrist, and make your shots more powerful.

2. Stretch and Strengthen Your Wrist

Stretching and strengthening your wrist can also help reduce pain and prevent injuries. Try doing simple wrist stretches before and after you play. You can also strengthen your wrist by doing exercises like wrist curls, wrist rotations, and wrist extensions.

3. Use Proper Equipment

Using the right equipment is essential for preventing wrist pain in tennis. Make sure you’re using a racket that’s the right size and weight for you, and that you’re using a good quality string. You should also use a shock-absorbent grip to reduce the strain on your wrist.

Treating Wrist Pain in Tennis

If you’re already experiencing wrist pain, there are a few things you can do to treat it.

1. Rest and Ice

The best thing to do when you’re experiencing wrist pain is to rest and ice your wrist. Take a few days off from playing and apply an ice pack to your wrist for 15 minutes several times a day.

2. Take Anti-Inflammatories

If your wrist pain is due to inflammation, you can take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen or naproxen. This will help reduce swelling and pain.

3. Wear a Wrist Brace

If your wrist pain is due to overuse, you may want to consider wearing a wrist brace to provide extra support and reduce strain on your wrist.

When to See a Doctor for Wrist Pain in Tennis

If your wrist pain persists for more than a few days, or if you experience severe pain, numbness, or tingling in your wrist, you should see a doctor. A doctor can help you determine the cause of your pain and recommend the best treatment plan.

Conclusion

Wrist pain in tennis is a common issue, but it can be prevented and treated with the right steps. Improving your technique, stretching and strengthening your wrist, and using the right equipment can help reduce wrist pain. If your pain persists, make sure to see a doctor for further diagnosis and treatment.