Hi
I think what you are referring to is the closed-lotus form. often looks like a ball or can be also seen to be partially open.
This is a Buddhist symbol and represents spiritual essence or energy that is inside every living thing.
Some myths believed that different dragons could harness the power of these balls to control winds, rain, earth, and fire and are often seen clutching a ball (sometimes flaming) in their claws.
The fact that they are at the end of the body (wrists and ankles) is often to suggest a capping or harnessing of the chi within the body at these focal points – creating power points within the tattoo itself of the wearer.
Take Care
Matthew