Differential Diagnosis of Dorsal Wrist Pain in a Recreational Tennis Player: A Case Report

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Hand-wrist tendinopathies are very common due to repetitive overuse. Intersection Syndrome as a differential diagnosis for dorsal wrist pain, characterized by pain localized to the distal dorsal radial wrist, is commonly underdiagnosed.

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 35-year-old, right-hand-dominant male tennis player presented with a five-month history of recurrent right dorsal wrist pain. Symptoms affected daily activities, including childcare and sport. A prior similar episode had resolved with self treatment. Physical examination findings led to a diagnosis of Intersection Syndrome.

OUTCOME: The patient was seen one time per week for a total of four sessions. QuickDASH score improved from 47.73/100 to 0/100. Wrist and hand mobility were restored to normal. He was able to return to tennis at the pre-injury level without experiencing any symptoms.

DISCUSSION: This case highlights the importance of a thorough physical therapy evaluation for differential diagnosis and initiating timely, targeted conservative treatment when appropriate. Intersection Syndrome, though often overlooked, responds well to conservative management strategies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4

Comments

Online before print, October 7, 2025

DOI

10.2519/josptcases.2025.0160

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