Dr. Mark E. Pruzansky
Dr. Jason S. Pruzansky
975 Park Avenue New York, NY 10028
HandSport Surgery Institute
Schedule Appointment

Wrestling Injuries

Advanced Diagnosis and Treatment at HandSport Surgery Institute

Wrestling is one of the oldest and most physically demanding sports. In New York City, wrestlers come in all shapes and sizes. From high school athletes, to college competitors, or adults training in Greco-Roman, freestyle, or folkstyle, these athletes put their hands and wrists under tremendous strain. These upper extremities serve as their tools for takedowns, hand-fighting, and mat control, making them especially vulnerable to injuries and the development of chronic conditions that lead to reduced performance on the mat.

At HandSport Surgery Institute (HSSI) on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Drs. Mark and Jason Pruzansky specialize in diagnosing and treating the full range of hand and wrist injuries common in wrestling. Whether you train at Columbia University, Fordham Prep, or community programs like Beat the Streets, HSSI offers expert care to help you maximize recovery and return to performance.

Common Hand and Wrist Injuries in Wrestling

There are several common hand and wrist injuries we see in wrestlers at HSSI. These injuries can have a range of severity, which impacts treatments plans, recovery times, and eventual outcomes.

1. Thumb UCL Injuries (Skier’s Thumb)

Wrestlers frequently sustain UCL (ulnar collateral ligament) injuries due to falls, mat pressure, or aggressive grips. These injuries are especially common during sprawls, collar ties, or when posting the hand to defend a takedown.

  • Symptoms: Pain and swelling at the base of the thumb, reduced pinch strength, and joint instability.
  • Treatment: Mild sprains may be treated with splinting; complete tears often require surgical repair to restore function and prevent long-term instability.

2. TFCC Tears (Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex)

The TFCC stabilizes the ulnar side of the wrist and is frequently stressed during wrist rotations, gripping, and torque-heavy positions in clinches or rolls.

  • Symptoms: Ulnar wrist pain, clicking or popping with motion, and diminished grip strength.
  • Treatment: Bracing and rest for minor tears; arthroscopic debridement or repair for persistent or severe cases.

3. Wrist Ligament Sprains and Instability

Repeated torque from grappling exchanges can stretch or tear the wrist ligaments, leading to instability that compromises wrist control and shot defense.

  • Symptoms: Diffuse wrist pain, a clunking sensation, and weakness during resistance.
  • Treatment: Immobilization and physical therapy for mild cases; arthroscopic ligament reconstruction may be necessary for chronic instability.

4. ECU Tendon Subluxation or Tears

The extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendon plays a vital role in wrist stability. In wrestling, frequent wrist torquing can cause the tendon to dislocate or tear its stabilizing subsheath.

  • Symptoms: Pain and snapping on the ulnar (pinky) side of the wrist during grip or rotation.
  • Treatment: Rest and splinting initially; chronic instability may require surgical stabilization.

5. Hook of Hamate Fractures

This rarely diagnosed fracture can result from direct impact on the palm, often during a fall or forceful post.

  • Symptoms: Pain when gripping, tenderness in the hypothenar (pinky-side) palm, and ulnar nerve irritation.
    Treatment: May require surgical excision or fixation for complete symptom resolution.

6. Boxer’s Knuckle (Extensor Tendon Injury at MCP Joint)

Though more common in striking sports, this injury can occur in wrestlers from repeated impact to the knuckle during sprawls or stiff-arm defense.

  • Symptoms: Swelling, pain over the knuckle, difficulty or clicking extending the finger.
  • Treatment: May require immobilization or tendon repair depending on severity.

Diagnosing Wrestling Injuries at HSSI

At HSSI, accurate diagnosis starts with a thorough physical exam tailored to the biomechanics of wrestling. Drs. Pruzansky assess joint stability, tendon integrity, and range of motion under stress-based maneuvers.

Advanced imaging techniques include:

  • Digital X-rays to identify fractures and joint alignment
  • MRI for soft tissue evaluation, especially ligaments and cartilage
  • Ultrasound for dynamic tendon assessment
  • CT Scans in complex or chronic cases for detailed bone visualization

Every diagnostic step is designed to determine the true extent of the injury. This is critical to guiding optimal treatment and avoiding long-term dysfunction.

Personalized Treatment Plans for Wrestlers

Treatment at HSSI is always tailored to the level of activity, competitive calendar, and long-term goals of each wrestler.

Non-Surgical Options

  • Custom-molded splints or braces
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Corticosteroid or biologic injections (PRP)
  • Sport-specific hand therapy for grip strength, flexibility, and return-to-mat conditioning

Surgical Solutions

When surgery is required, HSSI employs minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to minimize downtime and promote faster recovery. Procedures may include:

  • Thumb UCL reconstruction
  • ECU subsheath stabilization
  • TFCC arthroscopic repair
  • Tendon and ligament reconstructions
  • Fracture fixation (metacarpals, hook of hamate)

Return-to-Wrestling Protocol

HSSI supports every patient through a structured and safe return-to-sport protocol:

  • Phase 1: Pain and Inflammation Control
  • Phase 2: Restoration of Range of Motion and Strength
  • Phase 3: Wrestling-Specific Drills
  • Phase 4: Full Return to Practice and Competition

Progression is based on healing, strength benchmarks, and positional demands (e.g., top control, hand-fighting, mat returns).

Why Wrestlers in NYC Trust HSSI

  • Expertise in Sports Medicine: Decades of experience treating elite athletes
  • Combat Sport Familiarity: Unique understanding of wrestling biomechanics
  • Upper East Side Location: Accessible for students and athletes in Manhattan
  • High-Tech Diagnostics and Care: On-site imaging, surgical precision, and customized therapy
  • Doctor-Directed Care: Every patient sees Dr. Mark or Dr. Jason Pruzansky—not just staff

Book a Consultation Today

Whether you’re dealing with a new injury, chronic wrist pain, or want a second opinion before the postseason, HSSI is here to help. Contact us today at 212-249-8700 or use our online booking system to schedule an appointment.