Wrist pain can be caused by a sudden injury or by long-term problems, including repetitive stress, arthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. If the pain continues and does not get better, it is in your best interest to have an evaluation of your wrist by a skilled orthopedic doctor for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
The following symptoms may occur along with wrist pain:
- Numbness and tingling in the arm and/or hand
- Hand pain
- Inhibited movement of the arm, hand, or fingers
- Swelling and/or bruising of the hand and wrist
- Painful deformity developing in the hand
- Tenderness in the wrist
- Problems in straightening (extending) the arm or hand
- Problems in bending (flexing) the fingers
- Muscle pain and weakness in the forearm or fingers
Your doctor will consider all of your symptoms when determining treatment that would work in your case. Let’s talk about some of the main causes of wrist pain, and where you can go for an efficient evaluation and treatment that helps you get your wrist back and working normally again.
Causes of Wrist Pain
Wrist pain is often caused by a sprain or a strain, but chronic pain in the wrist is frequently caused by the following underlying health conditions:
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect the joints as well as other organs. This condition typically starts with the hands and wrists, but because it is rheumatic, it can cause widespread inflammation even in the eyes, heart, lungs, and brain.
Osteoarthritis
Also often called just “arthritis” because this is the most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis happens when the protective cartilage in a joint wears down and causes painful bone-on-bone friction. It is found in older people as well as young athletes.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Part of the median nerve resides in a passageway in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. When this nerve becomes compressed for any reason, carpal tunnel syndrome occurs – resulting in wrist pain, hand weakness, and numbness in the fingers.
De Quervain’s Tendonitis
De Quervain’s tendonitis, also known as De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, occurs when one or more of the tendons along the thumb-side of the wrist become inflamed. Overuse of this area is the main culprit for this condition, but it can also be due to trauma or rheumatoid arthritis.
Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are benign, fluid-filled round lumps that commonly develop around the hand or wrist, but they may also develop in the ankles and feet. These lumps can press on the nerves and cause wrist pain or other symptoms.
Treatment for Wrist Pain in Bismarck, ND
Wrist pain and hand issues can be successfully addressed thanks to today’s advancements in orthopedic care. If you have pain in your wrist or other joints in your body, have a consultation with the medical experts here at The Bone & Joint Center. We will be able to provide an efficient assessment and explain your best treatment options.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our outstanding orthopedic physicians across North Dakota, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (800) 424-2663 or by filling out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you find lasting relief from your wrist pain!
