Wrist pain is a common occurrence associated with a large number of causes. The wrist joint plays some crucial role in basic movements ranging from texting to writing. At the time when pain occurs, it can interfere with daily activities and even affect the quality of life of an individual.
The wrist is not just a joint. Rather, it consists of several small joints where the bones of the hand and forearm meet.
Wrist pain can occur as a result of a sudden impact or injury. For example, a wrist sprain can result in pain if the ligament is overstretched. The onset of this type of wrist pain is usually due to the sudden occurrence of an injury.
What are the Causes of Wrist Pain?
Pain can arise for a variety of reasons, ranging from simple fatigue to an underlying problem. Generally, the major cause of wrist pain is injuries to the wrist. Beyond this, crushing the nerves which pass through the wrist can lead to pain. Below are the most common causes of wrist pain:
1. Carpel tunnel syndrome. The onset of this condition is due to thickening of the ligament and exertion of pressure on the nerve. When the nerve is squeezed, it can result in pain, numbness, and weakness of the hand. Individuals who are overweight or have diabetes or arthritis are at an increased risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
2. Osteoarthritis. Inflammation of the joints is caused by osteoarthritis and its occurrence is due to wearing away cartilage that covers the bones. The condition has been shown to affect a wide range of joints, the wrist inclusive. Osteoarthritis of the joint is prevalent among individuals who are middle age or older, and people who that have a history of the condition in their family.
3. Rheumatoid arthritis. This is an autoimmune disease in which healthy tissue is degraded by the immune system of the body. It can lead to wrist pain in the event that the joints in the area are affected.
4. Repetitive motion syndrome. The onset of this condition is due to the repetition of a task over and over again such as typing or knitting. Making excessive use of the joint can lead to swelling, mounting pressure on the surrounding nerves. This has been found to have a negative impact on many joints in the body including the wrist.
5. Wrist tendinitis. This occurs when the tendons of the wrist develop small tears or become irritated and inflamed. The condition usually occurs due to recurring movements involving the wrist.
6. Wrist bursitis. Bursae are small fluid-filled sac that helps to lubricate the joints. Bursitis simply means the inflammation of the small fluid-filled sac (bursa). Bursitis can appear in many parts of the body, including the wrist.
What are the Symptoms of Wrist Pain?
Wrist pain can differ, as this has to do with the causes of the pain. For example, osteoarthritis pain is often described as similar to a dull toothache, while carpal tunnel syndrome on the other hand usually causes a sprain or tingling sensation, especially at night. The exact location of the wrist pain also gives information to what is behind the symptoms.
Wrist Pain Treatment
Treatment for Wrist Pain requires restoring the circulation and blood flow to the affected structures in your wrist. Pain is caused when swelling, inflammation and decreased circulation generate a blockage, which causes blood flow to be interrupted or slowed. Treatment for this issue requires breaking up the accumulated fluids in your wrist to allow for improved healing and quicker recovery.
Products recommended for symptoms of swelling, redness, pain, and inflammation, and if coolness makes your pain feel better:
Ice Substitute Poultice
Bruise Relief Liniment
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
Products recommended when swelling and inflammation are gone, but you still feel pain, stiffness, weakness, and/or sensitivity in cold and damp weather, and if heat makes your pain feel better:
Pain Relief Liniment
Tendon and Ligament Poultice
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
