Wrist pain is usually due to fractures or sprains from sudden injuries. It can be due to long-term problems such as arthritis, repetitive stress and carpal tunnel syndrome. The wrist is the joint found at the bottom of the hand at the lower end of the forearm. The wrist joint connects the forearm and the hand. Pain in this area is common due to everyday activities and always using the hands and increases the risk of injuries.
Causes of wrist pain
- Swelling of the ligament due to overstretching usually with rupture without dislocation
- Arthritis which is a medical condition affecting the joints and causes swelling and severe pain in the joint of the wrist.
- Tendonitis causes inflammation of the tendon sheath due to bacterial infections, rheumatic diseases and overuse of the forearm muscles.
- A crack or break in the bone which depends on the severity and cause wrist pain, swelling and deformity of the affected area.
Swelling of the ligament due to overstretching usually with rupture without dislocation - Carpal tunnel syndrome caused by the dysfunction of the nerves found in the wrist especially the median nerve. This nerve is compressed or pinched off and causes severe pain in the wrist.
- Other conditions such as ganglion cysts can cause pain in the wrist.
Treatment
- Take plenty of rest is the first thing to do when there is severe pain in the wrist especially if it is caused by injury to lessen the swelling and the pain in the wrist.
- Apply cold and warm compress on the affected area on the first 24 hours of the injury. Apply a cold compress on the affected wrist for at least 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours to lessen the soreness and the pain. After the cold therapy follow it up with heat therapy to relax the muscles and lessen the pain. Heat therapy can be in the form of a heat pad. Another alternative is soaking the affected wrist in hot water mixed with a cup of Epsom salt.
- Wear a wrist support or braces to prevent unnecessary movement and support for the wrist when performing simple activities and prevent further damage and recurrence of the condition.
- Take the prescribed over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to lessen the swelling and the pain in the joint.
- Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory properties that lessen the pain in the hand and wrist. In a glass filled with warm water, add 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and a teaspoon of honey and drink the solution on an empty stomach in the morning.
Disclaimer / More Information
The material posted on this page on wrist pain is for learning purposes only. Learn more about the causes by taking a first aid and CPR class with one of our training providers.
FACT CHECK
http://www.assh.org/handcare/hand-arm-injuries/ulnar-sided-wrist-pain
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/312070.php
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wrist-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20366213