Pain or discomfort in the hand or wrist – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Causes:

Numerous factors can trigger hand and wrist discomfort, including:

• Overuse Injuries: Repetitive motions can strain tendons, muscles, and ligaments, leading to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome (affecting the median nerve) or tendonitis (inflammation of tendons).
• Trauma: Fractures, sprains, and dislocations from falls or impacts can cause immediate and intense pain.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis (wear and tear) or rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune disease) can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
• Nerve Compression: Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome can compress nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling.
• Ganglion Cysts: These noncancerous, fluid-filled lumps can develop on tendons or joints, sometimes causing pain.
• De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: This affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain when gripping or moving the thumb.

Diagnosis:

A healthcare professional will typically diagnose the cause of hand and wrist pain through:

• Physical Examination: Assessing range of motion, tenderness, and any deformities.
• Patient History: Understanding the onset, duration, and nature of the pain, as well as any related activities or injuries.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays can reveal fractures or arthritis, while MRI scans can visualize soft tissues like tendons and ligaments.
• Nerve Conduction Studies: These tests can assess nerve function and diagnose conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Treatment:

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

• Rest: Avoiding aggravating activities is crucial for healing.
• Ice and Compression: Reducing inflammation and pain.
• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription medications can help manage pain.
• Splinting or Bracing: Immobilizing the wrist or hand to promote healing.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation in some conditions.
• Surgery: May be necessary for severe fractures, nerve compression, or tendon tears.

It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for any persistent or severe hand and wrist pain. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term problems and restore function.