The wrist is a complex structure made up of multiple small bones, tendons, ligaments, and nerves that work together to allow movement and support hand function. Pain in this area can affect daily tasks such as typing, lifting, and gripping objects. This article explores common causes of wrist pain, treatment approaches, and ways to manage symptoms effectively.
Common Causes of Wrist Pain
Wrist pain can result from repetitive strain, medical conditions, or injuries. Identifying the cause helps determine the appropriate treatment.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which passes through a narrow tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed. This often develops due to repetitive hand movements, prolonged wrist flexion, or underlying conditions that cause swelling. Symptoms include:
- Tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger, which may extend up the arm.
- Discomfort that worsens at night and temporarily improves with hand movement.
- Weak grip strength, making it difficult to hold objects, turn keys, or perform fine motor tasks.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendons due to repetitive strain or excessive use. It often affects individuals who engage in activities requiring frequent wrist movements, such as typing, sports, or manual work. Symptoms include:
- Pain that worsens with movement, ranging from a mild ache to sharp discomfort.
- Swelling around the affected tendon, sometimes accompanied by warmth or redness.
- Stiffness that is more noticeable in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Arthritis
Arthritis affects the wrist when joint cartilage wears down or when inflammation develops within the joint. There are several types of arthritis, including:
Osteoarthritis: A degenerative condition where joint cartilage gradually deteriorates, leading to stiffness, pain, and a grinding sensation during movement.
Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition that typically affects both wrists symmetrically, causing prolonged morning stiffness, swelling, and joint deformity over time.
Post-traumatic arthritis: Occurs following an injury, such as a fracture or dislocation, leading to progressive joint damage.
Sprains and Fractures
Injuries can result from sudden impacts, falls, or excessive force applied to the wrist. These include:
Sprains: Caused by overstretching or tearing of ligaments, leading to pain, swelling, and instability. The severity ranges from mild ligament stretching to complete tears.
Fracture: A break in any of the wrist bones, which may cause severe pain, swelling, bruising, and visible deformity in some cases.
Scaphoid fractures: A specific type of wrist fracture that occurs when falling onto an outstretched hand. These fractures can be difficult to detect initially but may lead to long-term complications if untreated.
Managing Wrist Pain: Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. A combination of self-care, physiotherapy, medication, and, in some cases, surgery may be needed.
Self-Care and Non-Surgical Management
For mild to moderate wrist pain, modifying activities that involve repetitive movements or strain can help prevent further irritation. Simple adjustments, such as changing hand positioning while typing or using ergonomic tools, may reduce stress on the wrist.
Cold therapy, applied for 15-20 minutes, helps reduce swelling and numb pain in acute injuries, while heat therapy improves flexibility in chronic conditions. Splints or braces provide support and limit movement, aiding recovery in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and mild sprains.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy helps restore wrist function, prevent stiffness, and strengthen supporting muscles. Treatment may begin with range of motion exercises to maintain flexibility, followed by strengthening exercises to stabilise the wrist and prevent recurrence.
Manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilisation and soft tissue massage, can improve mobility and reduce discomfort. Physiotherapists also offer ergonomic advice to adjust workstations, posture, and movement patterns, reducing wrist strain in daily activities.
Medication
Medication can help manage pain and inflammation, depending on severity. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen reduce swelling and discomfort in conditions such as tendonitis and arthritis. Corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief for carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis by reducing inflammation. In rheumatoid arthritis, disease-modifying drugs can slow joint damage and control long-term inflammation, often used alongside physiotherapy for better mobility and function.
Surgical Options
Surgery may be necessary when other treatments are ineffective or when there is significant structural damage.
Carpal tunnel release: This procedure involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve. It can be performed as an open surgery or using a minimally invasive technique. Recovery typically involves physiotherapy to restore strength and mobility.
Tendon repair: Severe tendon tears or ruptures may require surgical repair, where the torn tendon is stitched back together or reinforced with a graft. Rehabilitation is necessary for regaining full wrist function after surgery.
Joint fusion or replacement: In cases of advanced arthritis, joint fusion permanently joins bones to eliminate movement, reducing pain but limiting flexibility. Joint replacement, where the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial implant, preserves mobility while alleviating discomfort.
Fracture fixation: If a wrist fracture is unstable, metal plates, screws, or pins may be used to hold the bones in place while they heal. This procedure ensures proper alignment, reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Preventing Wrist Pain and Injuries
Taking preventive steps can help reduce the risk of wrist pain and long-term joint problems. Maintaining a neutral wrist position while using a keyboard, mouse, or handheld device minimises strain, while taking regular breaks from repetitive activities, ideally every 30-60 minutes, prevents overuse injuries.
Using ergonomic equipment, such as wrist supports or height-adjustable desks, can improve wrist alignment and reduce unnecessary pressure. Regular wrist-strengthening and flexibility exercises help support joint health, while proper warm-ups before physically demanding activities, such as weightlifting or racquet sports, can prevent strain and injury.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek medical attention if wrist pain persists for several weeks despite self-care or worsens over time. Numbness, tingling, weakness, or restricted movement affecting daily tasks may indicate nerve compression or joint damage. Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or spreading swelling, require prompt evaluation. If pain follows an injury and is accompanied by swelling, bruising, or deformity, immediate assessment is recommended to rule out fractures or ligament damage.
Conclusion
Wrist pain can result from repetitive strain, medical conditions, or injuries, affecting daily activities and mobility. Treatment options range from self-care and physiotherapy to medication and, if needed, surgery. Making small adjustments, such as improving ergonomics and strengthening the wrist, can help prevent discomfort. If pain persists or interferes with movement, seeking medical advice can help determine the best approach for relief and recovery.
If you are experiencing ongoing wrist pain, schedule a consultation to explore suitable treatment options.