Wrist Pain

Wrist pain is a common complaint that can arise from numerous causes, including acute injuries like sprains and fractures, overuse conditions such as De Quervain's tenosynovitis, nerve compression like carpal tunnel syndrome, and degenerative conditions including arthritis. The wrist's complex anatomy—eight small carpal bones, multiple ligaments, and tendons—makes it susceptible to various problems.

At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our hand and wrist specialists use advanced imaging and diagnostic techniques to identify the precise cause of your wrist pain. Accurate diagnosis is essential because treatment varies significantly depending on the underlying condition.

Wrist pain symptoms vary based on the underlying cause:

• Sharp pain with specific movements may indicate ligament injury or tendinitis
• Aching or stiffness that worsens over time often suggests arthritis
• Swelling, bruising, or deformity after injury may indicate fracture
• Numbness or tingling in the fingers suggests nerve involvement
• Clicking, popping, or instability may indicate ligament damage or TFCC tear
• Weakness when gripping or lifting objects

Risk factors for developing wrist pain include:

• Sports activities involving repetitive wrist motion or impact (tennis, golf, gymnastics)
• Occupations requiring repetitive hand movements (typing, assembly work, carpentry)
• Previous wrist injuries or fractures
• Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
• Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and other systemic conditions
• Aging, which increases risk of osteoarthritis and ligament degeneration

Diagnosis begins with a thorough history and physical examination. Our specialists assess wrist range of motion, stability, and tenderness patterns. Specific tests help identify particular conditions—the Watson test for scapholunate instability, Finkelstein test for De Quervain's, and TFCC compression test for triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries.

Imaging plays a crucial role: X-rays evaluate bones and arthritis, MRI visualizes soft tissue injuries and ligament tears, and ultrasound provides dynamic assessment of tendons. We offer complimentary imaging reviews to help identify your condition accurately.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Many causes of wrist pain respond well to conservative care:

• Rest, ice, and activity modification
• Splinting or bracing to immobilize and protect the wrist
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility
• Corticosteroid or PRP injections for tendinitis or arthritis

Surgical Options

When conservative treatment fails, surgical options depend on the diagnosis:

• Wrist arthroscopy for ligament repairs and TFCC injuries
• Fracture fixation for unstable or displaced fractures
• Carpal tunnel release for nerve compression
• Joint fusion or replacement for severe arthritis

Wrist pain can originate from bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, or nerves. Bone pain from fractures is typically sharp and worsens with movement. Joint pain from arthritis tends to be a deep ache that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Tendon pain is often associated with specific movements, while nerve pain includes numbness and tingling.

Prevention Tips

• Use proper technique and equipment during sports and work activities
• Take regular breaks during repetitive tasks
• Strengthen wrist and forearm muscles with targeted exercises
• Use ergonomic tools and maintain neutral wrist position when typing
• Wear wrist guards during activities with fall risk

Don't let wrist pain limit your daily activities. Schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics today. We offer same-day and next-day appointments and complimentary MRI reviews to help diagnose and treat your wrist condition.