What are the causes of wrist pain and how to treat it?

Expert answer:

To determine the specific cause of a wrist pain, it takes a physical exam performed by the doctor together with the clinical history of the patient and possible achievements of complementary exams such as radiography.

Certain issues should be investigated such as the presence of work and recreational activities, the dominance of the hand (right hand or left hand) and the mechanism of trauma when present.

After these evaluations, Possible causes of wrist pain can be identified:

  • Fracture;
  • Tendinopathy;
  • Dislocation;
  • Cyst;
  • Neuropathy;
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome;
  • Tenosynovitis;
  • Instability of the bones of the hand;
  • Repetitive strain injury.

Some pains in the wrist may be a result of old traumas or non-traumatic conditions.

O treatment will depend on the specific and identified cause to justify the pain in the wrist. Such treatment may include:

  • Rest;
  • Application of cold compress;
  • Use of anti-inflammatories;
  • Use of splint or plaster;
  • Realization of physiotherapy;
  • Surgery.

In the presence of wrist pain, it is important to seek medical attention for a detailed evaluation.