Wrist pain: what is this, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Wrist pain; Pain – wrist; Pain – carpal tunnel; Injury – wrist; Arthritis – wrist; Gout – wrist; Pseudogout – wrist

Wrist pain is a common condition, that affects many people at some point in their lives. The wrist is a complex joint, bony, ligaments, tendons and muscles, and pain can occur for various reasons. In this article, we will discuss, what is wrist pain, her reasons, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, home treatment and prevention.

What is wrist pain?

Wrist pain is discomfort or pain, that occurs in the wrist and can range from mild to severe. Pain may be felt in one or both wrists and may be accompanied by stiffness, weakness or numbness. Pain can be sharp, that is, it occurs suddenly and lasts for a short period of time, or may be chronic, that is, it persists for a longer period of time.

Causes of wrist pain

Wrist pain can be caused by a variety of factors., including:

• Arthritis: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause pain, stiffness and inflammation in the wrist.
• Tendinitis: inflammation of the tendons of the wrist can cause pain, especially when gripping or moving the wrist.
• Fractures: a broken wrist bone can cause severe pain and swelling.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome: This State, in which the median nerve, passing through the wrist, shrinks, causing pain, numbness and tingling in the hand and wrist.
• Excessive stress on the wrist: repetitive movements, such as typing or using the mouse, can cause tension in the wrist and lead to pain.

Wrist pain symptoms

Symptoms of wrist pain can vary depending on the cause., but may include:

• Pain or discomfort in the wrist
• Stiffness or limited range of motion
• Weakness or numbness in the hand and fingers
• Swelling or redness of the wrist
• Tingling or burning in the hand and fingers

Wrist Pain Diagnosis

If you are experiencing wrist pain, it is important to see a doctor for a correct diagnosis. The health worker will take the history, conduct a physical examination and may order imaging studies, such as X-ray or MRI, to determine the cause of pain.

Wrist Pain Treatment

Treatment for wrist pain will depend on the cause of the pain and the severity of the symptoms.. Treatment options may include:

• Medicines: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to reduce pain and inflammation (NSAIDs).
• Physiotherapy. Exercises and stretches can be used to improve range of motion and wrist strength.
• Splinting or fixation: a splint or orthosis can be used to immobilize the wrist and allow it to heal.
• Surgery: in some cases, surgery may be required, to repair or correct a problem in your wrist.

home treatment for wrist pain

In addition to seeking medical attention for wrist pain, you can also do something at home, to deal with the pain. This includes:

• Rest of the wrist: avoid action, that aggravate the pain, and take frequent breaks when performing repetitive movements.
• Ice: applying ice to the wrist can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• OTC painkillers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can be used to relieve pain.

Prevention of wrist pain

There are several steps, you can take, to prevent pain, including:

• Maintaining correct posture and ergonomics. Check, that your computer and workstation are properly configured, to reduce stress on the wrist.
• Strengthening the wrists. Do the exercises, targeting the muscles and tendons of the wrists, such as flexion and extension of the wrists.
• Wrist stretch. Stretch your wrists and fingers regularly, to keep them flexible and reduce the risk of injury.
• Avoid repetitive movements. If you do a lot of repetitive hand and wrist movements, take regular breaks and change tasks, to give your wrists a rest.
• Wearing a splint or bandage. If you are at risk for wrist pain, a splint or brace can help prevent injury and relieve symptoms.

In conclusion, Wrist pain can be caused by a variety of factors., including arthritis, Tendinitis, fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome and overuse. Symptoms include pain, constraint, weakness, numbness, swelling and tingling. Diagnosis of wrist pain may include history taking, physical examination and imaging tests. Treatment options include medications, physiotherapy, splinting or fixation and surgery. Home treatments and prevention include rest, ice, over-the-counter painkillers, correct posture and ergonomics, strengthening and stretching exercises, avoiding repetitive movements and wearing a splint or corset. It is important to seek medical attention for wrist pain, to determine the cause of the pain and choose the appropriate course of treatment.

Used sources and literature

Donohue KW, Fishman FF, Swigart CR. Hand and wrist pain. In: Firestein GS, Budd RC, Gabriel SE, Koretzky GA, McInnes IB, O'Dell Jr, eds. Firestein & Kelley’s Textbook of Rheumatology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 53.

Marinello PG, Gaston RG, Robinson EP, Lourie GM. Hand and wrist diagnosis and decision making. In: Miller MD, Thompson SR. eds. DeLee, The sink, & Miller’s Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 67.

Zhao M, Burke DT. Median neuropathy (carpal tunnel syndrome). In: Frontera WR, Silver JK, Rizzo TD Jr, eds. Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Musculoskeletal Disorders, Pain, and Rehabilitation. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 36.