The wrist is one of the most complex joints, allowing a wide range of motion. It consists of several small bones that glide smoothly over each other, enabling flexibility and function. However, its delicate structure means even minor pain can cause significant discomfort and hinder daily activities. If you’re considering consulting an orthopedic doctor for wrist pain, this article will briefly cover everything you need to know about wrist pain treatment.
How is Wrist Pain Caused?
Numerous factors can cause wrist pain. Some of them are mentioned below.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI)- Damage to the muscles, nerves, and tendons from repeated movements can lead to wrist pain.
- Arthritis- Persistent wrist pain can be a sign of arthritis. Some types of arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause severe pain in the joints.
- Injuries- Tearing of the muscles due to an injury is a primary cause of sharp wrist pain, which can make lifting objects difficult.
- Other Medical Conditions- There are some other conditions that can also cause wrist pain, such as Ganglion cysts, Gout, nerve compression, etc.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Wrist Pain
An orthopedic doctor in Mumbai might conduct a thorough evaluation of your wrist with the help of physical examination, imaging tests, and nerve tests like Electromyography to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain. Some of the treatment options that your orthopedist may suggest include the following:
- Rest & Immobilisation
Casts or braces should be used to immobilise the wrist to protect the bone from further damage and ensure healing.
- Pain Relieving Medication
NSAIDs like ibuprofen or as recommended by your orthopaedic doctor should be taken to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy
Treatments like ultrasound therapy and physiotherapy can help improve flexibility and provide strength to the wrist.
- Injections
In severe cases, your doctor may recommend steroid injections, such as cortisone, to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Along with the above treatment methods, your doctor might suggest performing some home remedies to boost recovery and healing. A care routine named RICE, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, might help in relaxing the tensed muscles in the wrist.
FAQs
Q1. How is carpal tunnel syndrome treated?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is when the median nerve of the wrist is compressed, which leads to a tingling and numbing sensation. It can be treated by various methods like wrist splints, steroid and non-steroid anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. For home remedies, an ice pack can help reduce inflammation.
Q2. Is wrist pain a sign of arthritis?
Wrist pain can be linked to arthritis if the symptoms persist for a long time. If the condition is accompanied by stiffness and swelling, you should consult a doctor for an arthritis evaluation.
Q3. How can I stop cracking wrists?
A condition known as crepitus, in which cracking and popping sounds occur when you move your wrist. It can be treated by stretching and exercising, icing the wrist, and wearing protective bands around the wrist to provide support.