Wrist pain is a common issue that affects many people, whether from injury, overuse, or underlying health conditions. It can make everyday tasks like typing, lifting, or even brushing your teeth difficult and uncomfortable.
At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists, we are experts in non-surgical treatments for chronic pain in the upper and lower extremities, back, and joints. Based in the greater Atlanta area, we help patients find lasting relief from pain. If wrist pain is holding you back, we can help. Schedule an appointment with us today to explore your treatment options.
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Let’s take a look at the top reasons your wrist might hurt and how you can start feeling better.
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common causes of wrist pain. It happens when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in your wrist, gets compressed. This compression often leads to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, particularly in the thumb and first three fingers.
Causes
CTS is usually caused by repetitive motions, especially ones that involve bending your wrist or using a lot of force. Jobs that require extended periods of typing, using a mouse, or other manual work (like assembly line jobs) are common culprits. Even hobbies like knitting or playing video games can lead to CTS if done for long periods.
Symptoms
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers
- Weakness in the hand, making it hard to grip objects
- Aching pain that worsens at night
Treatment
- Ergonomics: Adjusting your workspace can help. Make sure your desk, chair, and keyboard are at the right height to reduce strain on your wrists.
- Wrist braces: Wearing a wrist brace, especially at night, can keep your wrist in a neutral position, which relieves pressure on the median nerve.
- Stretching exercises: Gentle stretches can improve flexibility and reduce discomfort.
- Non-surgical options: The Physicians offer non-surgical treatments that can alleviate your symptoms, such as physical therapy or injections.
2. Wrist Tendinitis
Wrist tendinitis occurs when the tendons in your wrist become inflamed. Tendons connect muscles to bones, and when they're overused, they can become irritated, leading to pain and swelling.
Causes
Repetitive motions, such as those involved in sports (like tennis or golf) or heavy lifting, often lead to tendinitis. Even everyday tasks like carrying bags or constantly texting on your phone can contribute to this condition.
Symptoms
- Pain that gets worse with movement
- Swelling around the wrist
- Difficulty moving your wrist or hand
Treatment
- Rest and ice: Taking breaks from the activity causing the pain and applying ice can reduce inflammation.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help ease pain and swelling.
- Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can prevent tendinitis from coming back. The Physicians can design a therapy program tailored to your needs.
- Steroid injections: If the pain persists, steroid injections may help reduce inflammation.
3. Arthritis
Arthritis in the wrist, particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can be a significant source of pain. Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage that cushions your joints wears down, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation.
Causes
Osteoarthritis usually develops over time due to wear and tear on the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is caused by the immune system attacking the body's own tissues.
Symptoms
- Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
- Swelling and tenderness in the wrist
- Pain that worsens with activity
Treatment
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Wrist supports: Wearing a wrist brace or splint can help stabilize the joint and reduce pain.
- Gentle exercises: Keeping the joint moving is important. Simple stretching and strengthening exercises can help maintain range of motion.
4. Wrist Sprains and Strains
A wrist sprain or strain can occur if you accidentally twist your wrist or fall on an outstretched hand. Sprains involve ligaments (the tissue connecting bones), while strains affect muscles or tendons. These injuries are common in sports, but they can also happen during everyday activities, like slipping on a wet floor.
Symptoms:
- Swelling and bruising
- Pain when moving your wrist
- Difficulty using your hand or wrist
Treatment:
- RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation can help speed recovery. Make sure to give your wrist plenty of rest to avoid further injury.
- Splinting: Wearing a splint can protect the wrist and keep it stable while it heals.
- Medical attention for severe sprains: If you’re unable to move your wrist or the pain is severe, it’s important to seek medical attention. Our team can help assess the injury and provide appropriate treatment.
5. Ganglion Cysts
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is a condition where the tendons in the thumb and wrist become inflamed, causing pain and swelling. It’s especially common in new parents, athletes, or anyone who performs repetitive thumb and wrist movements.
Causes
Ganglion cysts can occur due to joint irritation, which often results from repetitive movements or wrist injuries. They may also form in areas where the cartilage has worn down, particularly in cases of wrist osteoarthritis.
Symptoms
- A noticeable lump on the wrist
- Pain or discomfort, especially when using the wrist
- Tingling or numbness if the cyst presses on a nerve
Treatment
- Observation: If the cyst isn’t causing significant pain, it may just be monitored.
- Aspiration: A doctor can remove the fluid from the cyst using a needle, which may relieve pain.
- Surgery: If the cyst is persistent or causing significant discomfort, surgical removal may be an option. Our team can provide an evaluation and discuss the best treatment plan for you.
How The Physicians Can Help
At The Physicians, we offer effective, non-surgical treatments for wrist pain tailored to your needs:
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and provide immediate pain relief for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis.
- Nerve Blocks: These injections temporarily interrupt pain signals, helping to alleviate severe discomfort in the wrist.
- Tenex Health TX: This minimally invasive procedure treats tendinitis by removing damaged tissue while preserving healthy structures, leading to improved mobility and reduced pain.
Consult The Physicians for Expert Wrist Care
Wrist pain arises from various conditions, but effective management strategies, including rest, therapy, and medical intervention, can significantly improve it. The Physicians offer personalized, non-surgical treatments to address the root cause of your discomfort.
Experience relief and regain function—schedule an appointment with The Physicians today. Our expert team is ready to provide personalized care and guidance to ensure the best treatment plan for your wrist pain.
