Wrist Pain? 5 Common Reasons Why
Wrist pain is easy to brush off as nothing serious. Yet, when it persists or intensifies, it can begin to hinder your daily activities. This can pose a frustrating and painful problem.
So, why are you experiencing this pain in the first place? Below, we explore common wrist pain causes and what you can potentially do about it.
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is perhaps one of the most well-known causes of wrist pain, especially in today’s digital age. This condition occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm to your hand through a narrow passage in your wrist called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed.
Common symptoms include:
- Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the palm and fingers
- Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip objects
- Pain that may extend from the wrist up the arm
Carpal tunnel syndrome is often associated with repetitive hand movements, such as typing or using a mouse for extended periods. However, it can also be caused by conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or pregnancy.
2. Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
While carpal tunnel syndrome is a specific type of RSI, there are other forms of repetitive strain injuries that can cause wrist pain. These injuries occur when you perform the same motion over and over again, leading to inflammation and damage to the tendons, nerves, or muscles in your wrist.
Common activities that can lead to RSI include:
- Prolonged computer use
- Playing musical instruments
- Certain sports like tennis or golf
- Assembly line work
Symptoms of RSI can vary but often include pain, stiffness, throbbing, and weakness in the affected area.
3. Arthritis
Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can be a significant source of wrist pain. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in your wrist joint wears down over time. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in your joints.
Both types of arthritis can lead to:
- Pain and stiffness in the wrist
- Swelling and warmth around the joint
- Decreased range of motion
- In severe cases, visible deformity of the wrist
4. Tendinitis
Tendinitis occurs when the tendons, the fibrous cords that attach muscle to bone, become inflamed. In the wrist, this often affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, a condition known as De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.
Symptoms of wrist tendinitis include:
- Pain, especially when turning the wrist, grasping, or making a fist
- Swelling near the base of the thumb
- A “sticking” or “stop-and-go” sensation when moving the thumb
5. Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled lumps that can develop along the tendons or joints of the wrist. While they’re typically harmless, they can cause pain if they press on nearby nerves.
Characteristics of ganglion cysts include a visible lump on the wrist that may change in size, pain or aching, especially with prolonged or repetitive wrist movements, or weakness in the affected hand or wrist.
Living with wrist pain, regardless of its cause, can be frustrating and debilitating. It can affect your ability to work, enjoy hobbies, or even perform simple daily tasks. While the causes we’ve discussed are common, it’s important to note that wrist pain can be complex and may result from a combination of factors.
Sometimes, seeking the advice of a professional is best. If you’re experiencing wrist pain, your Noblesville chiropractor at Anchor Health Chiropractic is here to help. Book your appointment today and start your journey to healthier, happier wrists.
