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Wrist and Hand Conditions
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This article will help you to identify some of the most common causes of wrist and hand pain with tips to help prevent and resolve these potentially disabling conditions.
Wrist and hand pain are extremely common complaints, and there are many common causes that we see almost every day in practice. It is important to have a professional assessment to accurately diagnosis of the cause of your symptoms so that appropriate treatment can be directed at the cause.
Injury to the sensitive structures of the wrist and hand, or inflammatory conditions such as bursitis or tendonitis often respond well to conservative physical therapy. Conversely if left untreated, may require more invasive medical treatments such as injections or even surgery. The following is a partial list of conditions that we treat successfully at our office:
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Tendonitis
A tendon is a fibrous band that attaches muscle to pain. If irritated, the tendon can become inflamed and is termed "tendonitis". We commonly see tendonitis in practice. Tendonitis can cause wrist pain and swelling. The inflamed tendon creates pain with most every movement of the hand, fingers, wrist and forearm. Additionally, the inflammation may create pressure on other sensitive structures, such as nerves, in the area. As a result of the pain, patients often immobilize the joints. Prolonged immobilization (greater than 48-72 hours), couple with pressure on sensitive structures can lead to more serious problems, that are often difficult to correct conservatively.
If you believe that you may be suffering from tendonitis - don't delay. Consult a trained professional today.
- Sprain
Wrist sprains are another common injury that we see regularly. Ligaments are strong, inelastic bands that connect bone to bone. Injury to a ligament is called a "sprain". Sprains can cause problems by limiting the use of our hands. As in the case with sprains, you will have an inflammatory response, just as with any other tissue injury. Prolonged immobilization, and inflammation can be very dangerous. Severe cases of ligament injury can necessitate surgery, but can easily be determined by most physical therapy evaluations, without the necessity for advanced diagnostic imaging.
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with Tendonitis or Sprain, call our office today to see how our techniques can benefit you. (888) 595-7282
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is the condition that results from dysfunction of one of the nerves in the wrist. In carpal tunnel syndrome the median nerve is compressed, or pinched off, as it passes through the wrist joint. Prolonged compression may lead to permanent damage. Since the nerves provide the electrical impulse that controls your muscles, sensation, etc., severe cases my result in the loss of meaningful use of the hand
- Arthritis
Arthritis is a problem that can cause wrist pain and difficulty performing normal activities. There are several causes of arthritis, and fortunately there are a number of treatments for wrist arthritis. For a more detailed description of arthritis, please click on the following button.
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Fractures
A wrist fracture is a common orthopedic injury. Patients who sustain a broken wrist may be treated in a cast, or they may need surgery for the fracture. In any event, all fractures will require rehabilitation after the bone heals, whether surgical or not. If you have suffered a fracture, you MUST consult a physical therapist as soon as the bone is no longer immobilized, or you risk the possibility of never regaining full use.
When do you need to call your doctor about your wrist pain?
If you are unsure of the cause of your wrist pain, or if you do not know the specific treatment recommendations for your condition, you should seek professional attention. Treatment of these conditions must be directed at the specific cause of your problem. Some signs that you should be seen by a doctor include:
- Inability to carry objects or use the arm
- Injury that causes deformity of the joint
- Wrist pain that occurs at night or while resting
- Wrist pain that persists beyond a few days
- Inability to straighten or flex the joint
- Swelling or significant bruising around the joint or forearm
- Signs of an infection, including fever, redness, warmth
- Any other unusual symptoms
This is a continually evolving site. Additional information will be posted regularly. Video currently being added! Please check back frequently and sign up for our FREE newsletter. by clicking the following link:
or just give us a call at
(952)224-9501, 5 days per week.
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