We rely on our wrists for various day-to-day tasks. These complex joints consist of multiple tendons, ligaments, and bones that all work together to provide stability and allow for movement.

A wrist injury can result in pain or stiffness that prevents you from using your hand for various tasks. Wrist pain can have a big impact on your quality of life. This pain can be the result of an injury or other health conditions.

Below, we take a look at common causes of pain and options for treatment.

Wrist Pain Causes

If you’re experiencing pain when you bend or engage your wrist, you may be wondering, ‘Why does my wrist hurt?’ There are several potential causes of pain in the wrist.

Below are some of the most common causes of wrist pain.

1. Osteoarthritis

This is one of the leading causes of pain when bending wrists. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that affects the cartilage in the joint.

When the cartilage is worn down, there is more friction between the bones, resulting in stiffness and pain. The degenerative condition can be the result of overuse, injury, or a natural consequence of aging.

2. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)

This is a condition that occurs when the median nerve is compressed. This nerve runs through the wrist and provides feeling for the fingers. It also helps to control the small muscles in the hand that move the fingers. Compression results in pain and numbness.

You may also experience weakness as well as a tingling that runs through the hand and fingers.

3. Tendinitis

This is another common cause of pain. It is a condition that occurs due to the inflammation of the tendons.

This results in stiffness, pain, and limitations in mobility. It can occur as a result of repetitive motion, injury, or overuse. You may experience swelling, stiffness, and pain in the wrist. The pain often gets worse when you try to lift or grip objects.

4. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

This is an autoimmune condition that causes the joints to become inflamed. It is a chronic condition that also affects the wrists.

It occurs when the immune system attacks the lining around the joints. It causes pain and stiffness in the joints. It can also result in damage to the cartilage, resulting in joint deformity.

5. Ganglion cysts

These are fluid-filled sacs that can develop near or on tendons or joints. When they are large, they press on the surrounding tendons and nerves, causing numbness, pain, and a tingling feeling. They can occur as a result of overuse of the joint, repetitive motions, degeneration, and trauma.

Wrist Pain Treatment

There are various options available for treating pain depending on the underlying cause. These include:

• Medication – over-the-counter pain relievers, including acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• Physical therapy – exercises can help stretch and strengthen muscles and tendons to improve flexibility while reducing pain.
• Wearing supportive or immobilizing devices – these include splints or braces. They will help to reduce pain.
• Corticoseroid injections – these can help to reduce pain and inflammation. They are often recommended for chronic conditions such as ganglion cysts and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Surgical treatment – This is a last resort to repair or remove tissue that is damaged. This treatment can also be used to stabilize or realign bones.

Get Help with Pain in The Wrist

Treatment for pain in the wrist varies depending on your specific condition. Contact us at Dr. Chris Boone and schedule a consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable orthopedic surgeon.

Get an accurate diagnosis of your condition and get started on a customized treatment plan. Don’t let pain hinder you from living a fulfilled life.