Wrist Pain

Pain in the wrist is a common complaint that affects people of all ages and activity levels. Whether it stems from an injury, arthritis, or repetitive motion, discomfort in this area can make daily activities—such as typing, gripping objects, or lifting—challenging. Understanding the possible causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you find relief and prevent long-term complications.

Common Causes of Wrist Discomfort

Several factors can contribute to wrist pain, ranging from sudden injuries to chronic conditions. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment.

Injuries

Trauma to the wrist is one of the leading causes of pain. Falls, direct impacts, and repetitive strain can result in the following:

Falls on an outstretched hand
Fractures, including distal radius and scaphoid fractures
Ligament and tendon injuries
Sprains and strains

Injury-related wrist pain often requires immediate medical attention to prevent further damage and ensure proper healing.

Arthritis and Degenerative Conditions

Degenerative diseases and inflammatory conditions can lead to chronic pain and stiffness in the wrist. The most common types include:

Osteoarthritis, caused by wear and tear on the joint cartilage
Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that leads to joint inflammation
Post-traumatic arthritis, which develops after an injury

Because arthritis-related wrist pain can worsen over time, early diagnosis and treatment are key to maintaining function and reducing discomfort.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can contribute to wrist pain by affecting nerves, tendons, or blood flow in the area. These include:

Carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by nerve compression
Ganglion cysts, which may press on nearby structures and cause discomfort
Kienböck’s disease, a disorder that affects blood supply to the small bones in the wrist
De Quervain’s tendinitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the thumb side of the wrist
Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) tear, a common cause of pain in the ulnar side of the wrist
Gout, which can lead to sudden, severe joint pain
Intersection syndrome, an inflammatory condition affecting the tendons in the wrist

Since these conditions vary in severity and progression, consulting a specialist can help determine the best course of treatment based on your specific diagnosis.

Symptoms That May Indicate an Underlying Condition

The symptoms of wrist pain can range from mild discomfort to significant loss of function. Recognizing the warning signs can help you seek treatment before the condition worsens.

Common symptoms include:

Stiffness or limited range of motion
Swelling or tenderness around the joint
Weakness when gripping objects
Bruising, especially after an injury
Tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation in the hand or fingers

If wrist pain is persistent or accompanied by swelling, weakness, or difficulty using the hand, a medical evaluation is recommended to determine the underlying cause and prevent further complications.

How Specialists Diagnose Wrist Conditions

Diagnosing wrist pain involves a combination of clinical assessment and diagnostic imaging. A specialist can evaluate the severity of your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Common diagnostic methods include:

Physical examination: Assessing range of motion, grip strength, and areas of tenderness
Imaging tests: X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, or ultrasound to evaluate bones, ligaments, and soft tissues
Electrodiagnostic testing: Nerve conduction studies when conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome are suspected

Because wrist pain can result from multiple causes, a thorough diagnostic process is essential for determining the right treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Wrist Conditions

The best treatment approach depends on the severity of the pain and the underlying condition. Many cases can be managed with non-surgical methods, while others may require surgical intervention.

Non-Surgical Treatment

For mild to moderate wrist pain, conservative treatments can often provide relief. These may include:

Activity modification: Adjusting movements to avoid further irritation
Bracing or splinting: Providing support and stability to aid healing
Anti-inflammatory medications: Reducing pain and swelling
Physical therapy: Strengthening exercises to improve mobility and function
Corticosteroid injections: Easing inflammation for conditions like arthritis or tendinitis

By following a tailored non-surgical treatment plan, many individuals can achieve significant pain relief and restore function without the need for surgery.

Surgical Treatment

When non-surgical treatments are ineffective, or if there is structural damage that requires correction, surgery may be the best option. Common procedures include:

Repairing fractures or ligament injuries
Carpal tunnel release
Arthroscopic surgery for joint or cartilage issues
Joint fusion or replacement for advanced arthritis

Surgical options are designed to relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve long-term function. Recovery times vary, but advancements in minimally invasive techniques often lead to faster healing and reduced downtime.

Why See a Specialist?

The wrist is a complex structure made up of multiple bones, ligaments, and tendons that must work together for proper function. Because of this complexity, an accurate diagnosis and specialized care are essential.

Dr. Brandon P. Donnelly, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with expertise in treating conditions of the hand, wrist, and elbow. His advanced training ensures that patients receive the most effective, evidence-based treatment for their condition.

If you are experiencing persistent discomfort or limited function in your wrist, seeking timely medical evaluation can help prevent long-term complications.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Donnelly today!