Wrist Pain

Why do I have wrist pain? 

Wrist pain can arise from disease, injury, or wear-and-tear. At Advanced Regional Center for Orthopedics & Podiatry, the wrist pain specialists treat all wrist pain. Common causes are:

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the carpal tunnel (a passageway from your forearm to your hand) swells. This swelling pressures the main nerve (median nerve) that passes through it, causing pain and other symptoms in the wrist, thumb, and part of the palm.

Carpal tunnel is often related to overuse and repetitive movements.

Fractures

Fractures, or broken bones, in the wrist usually happen due to trauma, for example, sports injuries or auto accidents. 

Arthritis

Arthritis causes unhealthy changes in the joints and may alter joint structure. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common types of wrist arthritis. Osteoarthritis is usually connected to age-related wear-and-tear; rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition.

Tendon injuries

The tendons that run along your wrist can grow irritated, leading to De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. This condition doesn’t affect nerves like carpal tunnel but can cause similar symptoms.

My wrist pain started in my elbow. What is it? 

Despite its name, tennis elbow can spread to the wrist. If you continue using your elbow without treatment, the tendons involved can become increasingly inflamed. Soon, the pain may shoot down to your wrist. You may have difficulty holding a pen or opening doors, for example. 

What is the best way to treat wrist pain? 

Wrist pain treatment depends in large part on what caused the pain. Your experienced doctor at Advanced Regional Center for Orthopedics & Podiatry reviews your medical history, asks for detailed symptoms and examines your wrist, hand, forearm, and elbow. 

This information, coupled with imaging tests or nerve tests, helps your provider determine what caused your wrist pain. 

Common treatments for wrist pain are:

• Wrist brace
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Wrist strengthening exercises
• Exercises to increase wrist flexibility
• Ice packs to reduce pain and swelling
• Lifestyle changes, such as less repetitive wrist movements

Conservative care works for most people, but if you have chronic wrist pain, your doctor may recommend a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Arthroscopy only requires tiny incisions. With arthroscopy, your surgeon can examine your wrist and perform repairs simultaneously.