The wrist is composed of bones, joints, ligaments and tendons that can be susceptible to damage. In fact, wrist pain can be a sign of injury or an underlying medical problem. Sometimes the bones or skin surrounding the joints can be affected. There are many possible causes for wrist pain.
Osteoarthritis
The joints in the wrist can be affected and result in osteoarthritis. MedlinePlus, a website sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, says that osteoarthritis is the most common joint problem. It can lead to such symptoms as joint pain, joint swelling and limited range of motion. Osteoarthritis can affect joints in the wrist, knee, hands and feet.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease in which the fatty pad in the joint regions (cartilage) begin to wear down over time. The specific cause for osteoarthritis is unknown but it may be associated with fractures, being overweight and repetitive overuse. Certain medical conditions such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis and hemophilia (a blood disorder) are associated with osteoarthritis.
Treatment for osteoarthritis involves taking medications such as acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications and capsaicin. Other treatment involves resting, losing weight (if needed) and physical therapy to strengthen the joints and muscles. Braces to support the joints and surgery to repair or replace the joints may also be necessary.
Wrist Sprain
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) says that wrist sprain occurs when ligaments, which connect bone to bone, become torn or stretched.
Specific symptoms of a wrist sprain include wrist swelling, wrist pain and bruising of the skin surrounding the wrist. Wrist sprain can also lead to warm skin around the wrist and skin discoloration. Falling on an outstretched hand can lead to a wrist sprain.
Treatment for a wrist sprain involves resting the joint for 2 days, applying ice to the affected wrist and using an elastic bandage to compress the swelling. Other treatments for a wrist sprain include elevating the wrist above the heart. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain symptoms. A splint may also be necessary to immobilize the wrist.
Kienbock's Disease
The AAOS says that Kienbock's disease refers to a condition in which the small bones in the wrist (lunate) do not receive adequate amounts of blood.
Specific symptoms of Kienbock's disease include a painful or swollen wrist, decreased grip strength and pain or problems moving the hand, palm up. Kienbock's disease can also lead to tenderness and stiffness in the wrist.
The exact cause of Kienbock's disease is not clear. It is said that Kienbock disease sufferers may have initially experienced a sprain or other trauma to the wrist.
Treatment for Kienbock's disease involves taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin to reduce the swelling and pain. Surgery might be necessary to restore blood flow to the lunate or remove the lunate altogether.
