Intersection Syndrome

Intersection syndrome is a swelling and inflammation of the tendons that cross over the back of the wrist. It is caused by overuse or injury from activities that use the wrist, such as weight lifting, heavy raking and shoveling, downhill skiing, or canoeing.

Symptoms may include pain and swelling above the back of the wrist. Treatment includes rest, splinting, and medicines to decrease swelling. A steroid shot (injection), surgery, or physical therapy is sometimes needed.

Current as of: March 21, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Herbert von Schroeder, MD, MSc, FRCS(C) - Orthopedics, Hand and Microvascular Surgery