Ulnar Variance & Exercise

Your lower arm is made up of two bones -- the ulna and the radius. The length of these bones can lead to an ulnar variance, which can cause wrist pain, degenerative ailments, improper hand and wrist functioning, inflammation and a limited ability to perform everyday activities. Exercise plays a key role in restoring and maintaining your hand and wrist health while lowering the risk of further injuries. As every condition varies, consult with your doctor before starting new exercises.

Types

Three types of ulnar variances exist, according to Dr. Philip Blazar 1. A normal or neutral ulnar variance means the surface of your distal ulna and radius are equal. A negative variance occurs when the ulna is shorter than the radius. These two variances respond well to conservative treatments, such as exercise. A positive ulnar variance describes an ulna longer than the radius. Severe stages of positive variance conditions may require wrist arthroscopy to repair tears and ligament injuries. All variance types require flexibility and strengthening exercises to return your hand and wrist to a normal functioning level.

Carpal Shakes

Negative ulnar variances commonly result in carpal instability, according to Dr. Blazar 1. Taking breaks throughout the day to perform a variety of carpal tunnel exercises will relieve pressure on your median nerve and reduce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Through frequent hand and wrist exercise, such as the shaking-hand exercise, you can decrease your chance of needing carpal tunnel surgery. You can perform this exercise while seated or standing. Start with your arms at your sides. Lift your right hand in front of you while bending your elbow. Turn your palm inward and pretend you are shaking someone's hand. Slowly move your lower arm up and down while moving your elbow. Make five up-and-down movements on each side.

Digital Flexing

Positive ulnar variances respond well to using digital exercises while recuperating from surgeries that repair ligaments or shorten ulnas. Digital exercises come in handy as conservative exercises for neutral and negative ulnar variances and as part of a post-op rehab maneuver for positive variances that require ulnar osteotomy. Start doing a solo finger abduction stretch while either standing or sitting upright. Slowly lift your right hand and extend it in front of your body, with your elbow straight and palm facing away from you. Place your left fingers onto your right fingers and gently pull each right finger individually toward your body. Hold each position for 10 seconds before slowly returning to the original position. Relax for 10 seconds and then switch sides.

Additional Points

Begin your exercise program only after immobilizing your hand and wrist per your doctor's recommendation. Immobilization, such as wearing a splint, plays an essential role in properly healing your injury. Always start your exercises at a low intensity and slow pace. As your wrist flexibility and strength increases, gradually increase your weight and intensity amounts. Always consult a medical professional to ensure you're performing the right exercises for your body.