What is the Cause of Wrist Pain?

cause of wrist pain

Wrist pain can occur as a result of a number of conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and arthritis. Your healthcare provider will help you pinpoint what’s causing the symptoms.

In general, wrist pain is more common in people who have certain conditions or a job that requires repetitive tasks. The best way to prevent wrist pain is to avoid activities that cause it, or modify them to reduce the stress on your hands and wrists.

Repetitive motions (such as typing) can irritate the nerves in the hand and wrist. This can lead to pain, numbness and tingling. If the condition is caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, your doctor may recommend a wrist splint to limit the movements that are triggering your symptoms.

X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging scans: These tests use radio waves or a strong magnetic field to produce detailed images of bones, ligaments and tendons in your wrist. X-rays can reveal bone fractures, while MRIs can spot other issues inside your wrist.

Imaging studies can also spot infections or other diseases that are affecting your body. In these cases, blood tests and other tests can provide further information about your symptoms.

Physical therapy: Your healthcare provider can teach you techniques for stretching and strengthening your wrist muscles and tendons, which can relieve some of the pressure and stress that causes your wrist pain. This can help you relieve your pain and improve your quality of life.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: These medications can ease some of the pain and swelling that can accompany a sprain or other injury to the wrist. They also can help prevent future injuries. However, they can cause other side effects and should be taken only as recommended by your doctor.

Elevating your arm: Keep your wrist elevated above the level of your heart to help decrease swelling. If your wrist is swollen, apply an ice pack to it for 20 minutes a few times a day or more for several days. If you’re able, you can alternate ice with a heating pad to stimulate circulation and promote healing.

Compression and wraps: Putting a compression or pressure bandage on the wrist can help keep it in place and reduce swelling. This will help you recover faster and reduce the risk of further damage.

Over-the-counter pain medication: Acetaminophen, ibuprofen and NSAIDs can also be used to relieve the discomfort of a sprain or other injury. They can help reduce inflammation and pain, but they can cause side effects such as stomach bleeding and ulcers.

Exercise: Performing hand exercises can also ease wrist pain. These exercises can strengthen the muscles in your hand and wrist, improve your grip strength and relieve some of the stress on your tendons. 손목통증병원

Other therapies: Medications such as corticosteroids, antibiotics and steroid creams can also be useful for reducing inflammation and helping to heal your wrist. A chiropractor can prescribe stretches and exercises to improve your flexibility and strength in your wrist, which can also help you relieve your wrist pain.