Why treat wrist and hand pain?

Your wrists and hands play vital roles in completing a vast array of daily tasks. When pain arises, it can alter the way you go about your daily routines. 

Left untreated, many hand and wrist conditions can worsen, eventually requiring more invasive treatments and longer recovery times. Working with an orthopaedic specialist allows you to get the care you need in the earliest possible stages. 

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which undue pressure is placed on your median nerve, a long nerve that runs down your forearm and through your wrist. This nerve is protected by a bony canal called the carpal tunnel.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Wrist or hand pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Sensation of weakness in your hand or arm

This condition can be treated through wrist splinting, corticosteroid injections, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications to control discomfort. In some cases, surgery is needed to reduce the pressure on the medial nerve. If you have wrist pain or unusual sensations in your wrist, schedule a diagnostic exam right away. 

What is trigger finger and how is it treated?

Stenosing tenosynovitis, also called trigger finger, is a condition in which one of your fingers becomes stuck in a bent position. The finger can bend or straighten suddenly with a snapping sound, similar to the sound of a trigger that is pulled then released. 

Trigger finger happens when swelling occurs in the sheath that covers the tendon in each finger. People with occupations that require repetitive hand motions are at an elevated risk for trigger finger. 

Some cases of trigger finger will resolve with a period of rest. Splinting can help, as can special stretching exercises. In some cases, surgery is required to release constricted tissue and allow your finger to regain normal function. 

What are some other causes of wrist pain?

Wrist pain often occurs as a result of an injury. You can damage your wrist while playing sports or exercising or while at work. Even repetitive stress like typing or resting your head in your hands can cause wrist pain over time. 

Additional causes of wrist pain include:

• Ganglion cysts
• Kienbock’s disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis

Your specialist offers numerous diagnostic tools for hand and wrist pain, including:

• Physical exam
• X-ray
• Advanced digital imaging
• Diagnostic injections

Obesity, pregnancy, and diseases like diabetes all increase your risk of hand and wrist pain. You can prevent certain causes by building your bone strength, preventing falls, and using the proper protective gear when engaged in sports or exercise. Learning more about workplace ergonomics can also help you reduce hand and wrist pain. 

If hand and wrist pain is a daily problem, relief is available through the care of Tazewell Orthopaedic & Arthritis Clinic. Call the office today to set up a visit, or spend a few moments on the online scheduling page.