Physiotherapy Rehabilitation of Scapholunate Ligament Instability Following Ganglion Cyst in a Recreational Basketball Player: A Case Report

Ganglion cysts are prevalent benign soft tissue tumors, commonly occurring on the dorsal wrist and often associated with underlying joint structures like the scapholunate ligament (SLL), a critical stabilizer of the wrist. SLL instability, frequently resulting from acute trauma or repetitive stress, can significantly impair wrist function, causing pain, reduced range of motion, and decreased grip strength. This case report details the conservative management of a 25-year-old recreational basketball player who presented with SLL instability and a dorsal ganglion cyst following two separate wrist injuries. Despite initial conservative management, the patient continued to experience persistent pain and functional limitations. Diagnostic imaging confirmed the presence of a ganglion cyst arising from the SLL, which necessitated a targeted physiotherapy regimen. The rehabilitation protocol focused on pain relief, wrist stability, muscle strengthening, and functional performance, employing phonophoresis, K-taping, laser therapy, and progressive strengthening exercises. Throughout treatment, the patient exhibited marked improvements in wrist range of motion, muscle strength, and pain reduction, ultimately returning to basketball activities without recurrence of symptoms. This case underscores the potential effectiveness of conservative physiotherapy in managing SLL instability with associated ganglion cysts, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive, multifaceted approach to rehabilitation in restoring wrist function and enabling a return to sports.