Wrist Pain
The wrist and hand are the most intricate and active region of the upper extremity. Thus, they are the most vulnerable regions to injury. Hand and wrist don’t respond well to trauma often leading to functional difficulties. Wrist and hand pain can be caused by fracture, acute sprain, chronic repetitive strain injury, or ganglion cysts. The common conditions are:
De Quervain’s Paratenonitis (thumb tenosynovitis): Patient presents with radial wrist pain associated swelling, crepitus, & radiation of the pain either proximally or distally. Patient usually has a history of performing activities that require gripping with the thumb, such as lifting found children, gardening, racquet spots, skiing, carpenter, etc.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Patient complains of nocturnal paresthesias of the3 ½ radial fingers that is relieved by hand movement. In the initial stages, paresthesias are a more predominant symptom than pain. Increased numbness & burning with a feeling of congestion in the hand as the condition progresses. Later signs include thenar atrophy, diminished 2 point discrimination, & weakness of the muscles of the median nerve distribution.
Tunnel of Guyon Syndrome:Patient often complains of numbness and tingling in the fourth & fifth digits.
Trigger Finger/Thumb: Patient presents with a complaint of the finger or thumb getting “stuck” when trying to extend from a flexed position. Patient reports having to extend the involved finger or thumb passively. Patient may have a history of occupational overuse, especially grasping maneuvers.
The most common cause of these conditions are related to occupations that involve the long time and repetitive use of the hands and wrist. After reduce pain and restore normal joint mechanic, it is important to improve the flexibility of the joints and improve muscle strength to prevent future injuries. Moreover, exercises and ergonomic working posture play a vital role in the development and otherwise prevention of wrist and hand pain. Please call our team at Evergreen Health & Wellness today to set up a consultation and bring an end to wrist and hand pain.