The wrist is a vital joint that enables hand movement and flexibility. It is composed of multiple bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves, making it highly functional yet vulnerable to various conditions and injuries. Wrist pain can result from trauma, overuse, medical conditions, or nerve compression, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) – Compression of the median nerve causing numbness and tingling
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis – Inflammation of tendons on the thumb side of the wrist
Ligament & TFCC Injuries – Damage to the triangular fibrocartilage complex, leading to wrist instability
Osteoarthritis – Wear and tear of wrist joints causing pain and stiffness
Ganglion Cyst – Non Cancerous lump filled with fluid near the wrist joint
Fractures & Sprains – Broken bones or overstretched ligaments from falls or injuries
Pain & Tenderness – Sharp, dull, or aching pain, depending on the condition
Numbness & Tingling – Common in carpal tunnel syndrome and nerve-related issues
Swelling & Stiffness – Inflammatory conditions can cause limited movement
Weak Grip Strength – Difficulty holding objects due to ligament or tendon damage
Clicking or Popping Sensations – Often seen in ligament injuries or TFCC tears
Physical Examination – Checking mobility, strength, and pain triggers
Tinel’s Test – Tapping the median nerve to assess carpal tunnel syndrome
Phalen’s Maneuver – Wrist flexion test for nerve compression symptoms
Finkelstein test - Bend your wrist towards little finger side with making a hand fist
Imaging Tests – X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to detect fractures, ligament damage, or cysts
Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs for pain relief
Wrist Splints & Braces – Supports to stabilize and reduce strain
Physical Therapy – Strengthening and mobility exercises
Steroid Injections - Reducing inflammation for temporary relief
Minimally Invasive Surgery – Carpal tunnel release or ligament repair for severe cases
Maintain proper wrist posture during work and activities
Avoid repetitive strain by taking breaks during tasks like typing or lifting
Use ergonomic tools and wrist support when needed
Perform wrist-strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and endurance
Seek early medical intervention to prevent long-term damage
If wrist pain persists or worsens, consult a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and the best course of treatment.
The TFCC is a crucial structure that stabilizes the wrist and helps with rotational movements. Injuries occur due to trauma, repetitive strain, or age-related wear and tear.
Symptoms: Wrist pain, weakness, clicking sensation, and difficulty rotating the forearm
Treatment: Splinting, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, or, in severe cases, arthroscopic surgery
Inflammation of the tendons along the thumb side of the wrist, commonly seen in people who frequently grip, lift, or type.
Symptoms: Pain and swelling at the base of the thumb, difficulty in pinching or grasping objects, and tenderness along the wrist
Treatment: Wrist splints, rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or tendon release surgery if severe
A condition caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand. It commonly affects individuals with repetitive wrist movements or underlying conditions like diabetes or arthritis.
Symptoms: Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, especially at night
Treatment: Wrist braces, ergonomic modifications, steroid injections, physical therapy, or carpal tunnel release surgery for advanced cases
A benign, fluid-filled lump that forms near the wrist joint, often appearing suddenly and varying in size. While typically painless, larger cysts may cause discomfort or restrict movement.
Symptoms: Soft, round lump near the wrist, occasional tenderness, stiffness with wrist movement
Treatment: Monitoring for small cysts, aspiration (fluid removal), or surgical excision if it becomes painful or affects function
A degenerative joint condition that results from cartilage breakdown over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced wrist mobility. It is common in older adults or those with previous wrist injuries.
Symptoms: Persistent wrist pain, swelling, reduced grip strength, and difficulty in wrist movement
Treatment: Lifestyle modifications, pain relievers, braces, hand therapy, steroid injections, or joint fusion/replacement surgery in severe cases
Early intervention and proper management can prevent complications and improve wrist function. Consult a specialist for the best treatment options.
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