Wrist Pain

Causes of Wrist Pain

We see many different types of wrist pain with different causes. Among the most common are:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: As the median nerve, which controls sensation in the fingers, passes through a narrow passageway on the palm side of your hand (the carpal tunnel) it can become compressed. This can cause pain, tingling, numbness and hand weakness.
• Ganglion cysts: These painful, fluid-filled swellings form near the tendon or joint and can become very large in size.
• Sprains and fractures: These can develop as the result of a traumatic injury or due to overuse. Falling onto an outstretched hand is a common cause of wrist fractures.
• Arthritis: If you injure your wrist you may be at risk of developing osteoarthritis. This occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones, allowing them to glide smoothly over each other, starts to degenerate. Over time the bones can start to rub together and may form bony spurs. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes the body to attack the cartilage in the joints. It commonly affects both joints. Arthritis is a debilitating disease that affects the joints in the body including the wrist joint.

Symptoms of Wrist Pain

The type and location of the pain may very depending on what is causing it. You may experience mild to severe pain, a loss of movement and function in your wrist, numbness or tingling in your fingers or a clicking or popping sensation in your joint. Pain may be worse at night or when making certain movements.

Diagnosis of Wrist Pain

We use a number of different diagnostic techniques to identify the cause of wrist pain. Initially, you will be asked to describe your symptoms and how they developed and we will carry out a physical examination. We use different types of diagnostic imaging to show up problems with the bones and soft tissues. These include X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans and ultrasound. Arthroscopy involves inserting a thin instrument called an arthroscope through a small incision in your skin. It has a camera on one end so the doctor can see what is going on inside your wrist.

Treatment of Wrist Pain

We always recommend the least invasive treatment first as it carries the lowest risk of complications. Mild wrist pain can be treated with painkillers and/or anti-inflammatories. An ice pack may be used to reduce inflammation and you may need to wear a splint or cast to protect the soft tissues and allow them to heal. In some instances we may suggest an injection of steroids into the affected joint to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. A physiotherapist may be able to recommend exercises to improve muscle strength and flexibility. In some cases, a surgical procedure may be advised. If you have a ganglion cyst, for example, we may be able to drain it using a syringe or remove it. Severe Carpal Tunnel Syndrome may require carpal tunnel release surgery, which involves cutting through the ligament to free the compressed nerve. Certain kinds of fractures and sprains may also require surgery.