Hand Pain / Wrist Pain

What Is Hand Pain / Wrist Pain?

Hand pain and wrist pain are characterized by an unpleasant feeling such as throbbing, discomfort, achiness, sharp, stabbing, burning sensations, shooting or “electrical” pain.  It is frequently the result of overuse of the hands and wrists – usually in the workplace i.e. typing, writing, and lifting. If hand and wrist pain occur regularly, it can be a sign of an underlying condition.

What Are The Causes Of Hand Pain / Wrist Pain?

Hand and wrist pain can be caused by numerous occurrences, that can be acute or traumatically induced, to muscles, nerves, ligaments or bone. This can occur from chonric overuse or a acute injury like a fall. 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a typical condition of hand pain, where one experiences numbness and pain as a result of pressure on the median nerve. This is often the result of long periods of typing and writing in the workplace.

Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) tear causes wrist pain. It is often the result of overextension or a chronic condition.

Carpometacarpal Osteoarthritis (CMCOA) is when the cartilage at the base of the thumb erodes. This causes wrist pain, but also hurts the thumb.

Other conditions that cause hand pain and wrist pain include:

• Fractures
• Dislocations
• Ganglion cyst
• Kienbock’s Disease

Hand Pain / Wrist Pain Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of hand pain and wrist pain include the following:

• Pins-and-needles feeling
• Numbness and tingling
• Swelling
• Inability to hold things
• Pain that travels up the forearm

Hand Pain / Wrist Pain Risk Factors

he risk of having hand pain and wrist pain can be increased by the following:

• Typing for long periods of time
• Lifting heavy objects Sudden impacts
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Gout

What Is Included In An Effective Hand Pain / Wrist Pain Management Program?

Hand pain and wrist pain can often be managed on one’s own. If the pain is insignificant enough, applying an ice pack to the area may be sufficient for healing. In the case of carpal tunnel, TFCC, or CMCOA, one may need to use a splints or braces to prevent excessive bending throughout the day.

Wrist and hand stretches are also useful in the healing process. Exercises include extending the hand as much as possible and rotating the wrists repeatedly.

If the pain is severe and recurrent, intravenous corticosteroid is a viable treatment option.

When Is Hand Pain / Wrist Pain Considered Chronic?

Hand pain and wrist pain are considered chronic when they are persistent, and when they do not alleviate after the use of home remedies and exercises. In the case of chronic hand pain and wrist pain, you will need to consult a medical professional to find the problem.

What If I Have Hand Pain / Wrist Pain?

There are a few home remedies you can try right away, including the use of ice packs. You can also stretch and exercise the affected area.

If the pain is more severe, see a pain specialist. Dr. Yasha Magyar is a double board-certified osteopathic doctor. He’s Board Certified in physical medicine, rehabilitation and Board Certified in Pain Medicine to cover all your pain needs. Don’t hesitate to contact Network Spine to help with your hand / wrist pain.