The wrist is a very complex joint typically made of eight bones, called carpals. These form the junction between the bones of the forearm and hand. In addition to these carpal bones, tough fibrous bands surround the wrist and a tremendous number of tendons, nerves and blood vessels that travel through the wrist. Because of its complexity in structure and motion, wrist pain is a very common complaint. Pain may occur with motion only, or it may surface as a general achy feeling. Proper diagnosis is important to treat the source of the pain.
Sprain/Strain
A sudden impact, such as falling forward and landing on your outstretched hands, is a common source of a wrist sprain/strain, where the muscles, tendons, nerves and ligaments may be damaged. Repetitive motions at work or in recreational activities, such as golf or tennis, can also cause wrist strains. After ruling out more serious problems, ice in the first 72 hours is an effective way to reduce swelling and pain.
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
Tenosynovitis is the inflammation of two tendons, the abductor pollicis longus and the extensor pollicis brevis, which are located at the base of the thumb. When they become overstressed through repetitive tasks, they can cause pain and swelling in the wrist. Identifying and then decreasing the frequency of the offending actions is necessary to allow the inflammation to decrease. Ice and ibuprofen may be helpful in the acute stages.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The carpal tunnel is a space on the palm side of the wrist that is surrounded by a tough fibrous band. Through this tunnel pass the flexor tendons that are responsible for movement of the fingers and hand as well as the median nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome is brought on by repetitive movements that cause muscle strain and inflammation of the tendons, or carpal sheath. With inflammation, the median nerve can become compressed or irritated and cause numbness, tingling and pain in the hand and wrist.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA), the wear and tear arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an inflammatory condition, can cause pain in the wrist. According to the Mayo Clinic, OA is not common in the wrist, but when present causes destruction of the cartilage and usually occurs after a previous injury. An injury may cause poor function of the wrist and, over time, the structures can wear down. RA is a systemic disease that causes inflammation of the joint and commonly affects both wrists. During flareups, ice and anti-inflammatory medication may be helpful.
