Hand & Wrist Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Hand and wrist pain is a common issue that can interfere with daily activities, such as typing, lifting, or even performing basic tasks. Whether it’s caused by injury, overuse, or an underlying medical condition, hand and wrist pain can significantly affect your quality of life. At [Your Clinic Name], our orthopedic specialists are experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions related to hand and wrist pain. We offer personalized care to help you find relief and restore function.

Common Causes of Hand & Wrist Pain

1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
   Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed as it passes through the narrow carpal tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms include pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand, often worsened by prolonged typing or repetitive hand movements.
2. Arthritis
   Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints in the hands and wrists. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage to wear down over time, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation. Both conditions can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
3. Tendonitis
   Tendonitis in the wrist or hand involves inflammation of the tendons due to repetitive use, overloading, or sudden injury. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a common form of tendonitis that causes pain along the thumb side of the wrist.
4. Fractures
   Hand and wrist fractures, including breaks in the bones of the wrist, metacarpals (hand bones), or fingers, are typically caused by falls, accidents, or high-impact trauma. Fractures can cause severe pain, swelling, and bruising, and often require medical intervention for proper healing.
5. Sprains and Strains
   A sprain involves a stretched or torn ligament, while a strain refers to an injury to the muscles or tendons. Both sprains and strains in the hand and wrist can occur due to overuse, trauma, or sudden movements.
6. Ganglion Cysts
   Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous lumps that typically form on the wrist or the back of the hand. Although most ganglion cysts are painless, they can sometimes cause discomfort, especially if they put pressure on surrounding nerves or tendons.
7. Trigger Finger
   Trigger finger occurs when one of the fingers or thumbs gets stuck in a bent position due to inflammation or narrowing of the tendon sheath. It often results in pain, stiffness, and a popping or catching sensation when moving the affected finger.
8. Dupuytren’s Contracture
   This is a condition in which the connective tissue under the skin of the palm thickens and tightens, leading to the fingers becoming bent inward. The condition can cause pain and limit hand function over time.
9. Tenosynovitis
   Tenosynovitis is the inflammation of the sheath that surrounds a tendon, often resulting from overuse or injury. It can cause pain, swelling, and limited motion in the wrist or hand.

Symptoms of Hand & Wrist Pain

Hand and wrist pain can present in various ways depending on the underlying condition. Common symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness in the wrist, palm, or fingers
• Swelling or warmth in the affected area
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or fingers
• Stiffness or limited range of motion
• Difficulty gripping or holding objects
• A sensation of catching or locking in the fingers or wrist
• Visible deformity (in cases of fractures or severe arthritis)

Diagnosis

To diagnose the cause of hand and wrist pain, our orthopedic specialists will perform a comprehensive evaluation, which may include:

• Physical Examination: Assessing your symptoms, range of motion, and tenderness in the hand and wrist.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds may be used to detect fractures, soft tissue damage, arthritis, or other abnormalities.
• Nerve Conduction Studies: In cases of carpal tunnel syndrome or other nerve-related conditions, nerve conduction studies may help assess nerve function.
• Blood Tests: If an inflammatory condition like rheumatoid arthritis is suspected, blood tests can help identify markers of inflammation.

Treatment Options

Treatment for hand and wrist pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. At [Your Clinic Name], we provide individualized care to help you manage and treat your pain effectively. Common treatment options include:

1. Rest and Ice: Resting the affected area and applying ice can help reduce swelling and inflammation, particularly after an injury.
2. Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Bracing or Splinting: A brace or splint can provide support to the wrist and hand, limiting movement and aiding in healing for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis.
4. Physical Therapy: Therapeutic exercises can improve mobility, strengthen muscles, and reduce pain in the hand and wrist.
5. Surgical Intervention: If conservative treatments are ineffective or if you have a severe condition (such as a fracture or advanced arthritis), surgery may be necessary. Surgical options may include tendon repair, joint replacement, or decompression for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Preventing Hand & Wrist Pain

To reduce the risk of hand and wrist pain or prevent recurrent issues, consider the following tips:

• Practice Ergonomics: When working at a desk or computer, ensure your workstation is ergonomically friendly. Use proper posture and take frequent breaks to rest your hands and wrists.
• Stretch and Strengthen: Regularly stretch and strengthen the muscles in your hands and wrists, especially if you engage in repetitive tasks or physical activities.
• Wear Protective Gear: If you play sports or engage in activities that could result in injury, wear protective equipment such as wrist guards or splints.
• Avoid Overuse: Take breaks from activities that require repetitive wrist or hand movements to avoid overuse injuries like tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight can increase strain on your joints, including the wrists and hands.

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

If your hand or wrist pain persists despite rest, worsens over time, or affects your ability to perform daily tasks, it’s important to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and ensure faster recovery.

At Shanti Hospital, our orthopedic experts are dedicated to helping you find relief from hand and wrist pain. We offer advanced treatments tailored to your specific condition and needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward healing.