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Movement library
MobilityWristPhases 2, 3, 5

Wrist side-to-side

Wrist radial / ulnar deviation

Restores frontal-plane wrist motion needed for hammering, steering, racquet sports.

Best for

  • Tool use
  • Sports return

Default dose

10 reps • 3×/day

Avoid when

  • TFCC pain reproduced by ulnar deviation

Measurement targets

  • Radial deviation (deg)
  • Ulnar deviation (deg)

Setup

  • Forearm supported, palm down.

Steps

  1. 1Move the wrist side to side like waving 'no'.
  2. 2Stay smooth.

Cues

  • Forearm doesn't twist.

Common mistakes

  • Rotating the forearm.

Stop rules

  • Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)
  • Increasing swelling during or after
  • New or worsening numbness or tingling
  • Color change in fingers (pale, blue, red)
  • Wound opens, drains, or feels hot
  • Next morning is worse than the day before

Progressions

  • Add light tool grip during motion.

Regressions

  • Smaller arc.
Continue your rehab

What to do next — not a dead end

Suggestions use body region, goal, motion type, and allowed phases — not your medical record. After surgery or a flare, follow your clinician first.

Estimated time

~2–5 min as a focused practice block

10 reps · 3×/day

Equipment

None required — table or bodyweight only.

Rehab stage

Phases 2, 3, 5

Generally lower load — still respect pain and swelling.

When to stop

Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)

Increasing swelling during or after

Full stop rules ↑

Avoid if this sounds like you

TFCC pain reproduced by ulnar deviation

Reread best-for context ↑

Guided exercises that use this

Step-by-step sessions that embed this movement pattern.

Keep momentum without overdoing it

Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.

Scaling in plain language: Easier — Smaller arc. · Harder — Add light tool grip during motion.Full cues ↑