The wrist comprises several joints that help you perform many essential functions like cooking, self-care, computer work, and much more. Pain in the wrist can interfere with your ability to perform day-to-day tasks and should be addressed immediately. Read on to learn more about common wrist problems, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention.
Common Causes
There are quite a few reasons for pain in the wrist. These can range from simple fatigue to an injury. Some of the most common reasons you may experience wrist pain include:
- Carpel tunnel syndrome
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- De Quervain’s disease
- Triangular fibrocartilage complex injury
- Ganglion cyst
- Wrist tendonitis or bursitis
- Repetitive strain injury
- Wrist sprain
Visit your physician to get a thorough examination and diagnosis so you can pursue the correct treatment path.
Symptoms
Pain is the most reported symptom of wrist problems, and it can range from dull to sharp or achy, depending upon the cause. Other symptoms are:
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Tingling
- Clicking sounds
- Difficulty gripping
If the wrist isn’t treated, pain often increases in intensity and frequency. Always contact your doctor if the pain makes daily activities difficult, causes a limited range of motion, or if you experience worsening weakness, numbness, or tingling.
Treatment Options
Your doctor will examine your wrist and ask questions about your symptoms to reach a diagnosis. Possible treatments include:
- Home treatment with rest, ice, and pain-relievers
- Splints to immobilize the wrist
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Exercises to manage pain, stretch, and strengthen the wrist
- Surgery for more severe problems
You may require imaging, arthroscopy, or nerve conduction studies in addition to an exam to pinpoint the problem.
Preventative Measures
Protect yourself from trauma by taking measures to prevent wrist pain and injury. You can do this by using good posture while working at your desk, investing in a keyboard that reduces wrist strain, and taking regular breaks. It also helps to learn and use tools and equipment properly to limit stress on the wrist and wear guards when engaging in sports or high-impact activities.
Michigan Hand & Wrist was founded in 2001 with the mission to provide the highest-quality care for patients seeking surgical or non-surgical hand or upper extremity relief. Our goal is to exhaust all non-operative measures before discussing or moving on to surgical interventions. We offer on-site physical therapy from therapists committed to improving your quality of life. Our individualized treatments are modern, progressive, and exceptional. Contact us today at www.michiganhandandwrist.com or call 248-596-0412.
Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.