Elbow, Wrist, & Hand Pain

Elbow, wrist and hand pain can be the result of sudden trauma, injuries, or an underlying condition. The hand and wrist are prone to several types of damage including fracture, pain and injury of the tendon. The elbow joint is the area of junction of three bones. Tendinitis can affect the inner or outer elbow. The wrist is a condyloid synovial joint. Movements that come from this joint are extension, abduction, adduction and you get circumduction, which is a combination of all these movements.

The Elbow

The elbow is the synovial hinge joint which is located between the upper arm and forearm which allows the hand to be moved towards and away from the body. Ligament issues can happen in any of the ligaments located in the elbow joint. Ligament sprains can occur due to sudden trauma or as a result of repeated stress. The ligament might be stressed, stretched, or completely torn. Sometimes you may hear a slight pop at the time of the injury.

The Hand

Hand pain has a wide range of reasons for occurance from sudden trauma to conditions that are ongoing. These pains can usually be treated so that these symptoms ease up. Some of the most common causes of hand pain are De Quervain’s Tendinitis which causes pain on the side of the wrist, but can travel to the thumb and up the forearm. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome which is a very common nerve disorder of the hand. Fracture which is a break in a bone.

These are different types of fractures:

  • Simple
  • Complex
  • Compound
  • Comminuted

The Wrist

Wrist Pain symptoms can occur from everyday wear and tear as well as from injuries or the natural process of aging. Some of the most common causes of wrist pain are sprains, which often occur from physical activity. Athritis, which can affect one or multiple joints.

Conditions Associated with Elbow, Wrist & Hand Pain

  • Cancer Pain
  • Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
  • Complex Regional Pain Snydrome
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Myofascial Pain Snydrome
  • Osetoporosis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
  • Tendinitis and Bursitis
  • Tennis Elbow

Common Treatments for Elbow, Wrist & Hand Pain

  • Epidural Nerve Block
  • Intra-Articular Joint Injections
  • Medication Management
  • Rehabilitation

Elbow, Wrist, & Hand Pain FAQs

Wrist problems don't always require medical attention. Apply ice to a minor wrist injury and apply an elastic bandage. However, if the pain persists, do not self-diagnose. You may first see a general physician. They may refer you to a joint problem specialist (a rheumatologist), a pain care specialist center, a sports medicine doctor, or an orthopedic surgeon.

Elbow, wrist, and hand discomfort can be caused by traumatic events, injuries, or underlying medical conditions. Hands and wrists are susceptible to various injuries, including fractures, dislocations, and tendon injuries. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that directly affects the hands and wrists. Occurs with repeated finger or hand activity. For example, working on an assembly line or working with a hammer can cause swelling around the wrist.

Call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Severe joint pain, edema, bruising
  • Difficulty moving the elbow, using the arm, turning the arm from palm to palm down or vice versa.
  • Elbow problems that persist despite home remedies
  • Pain when using the arm
  • Severe pain, bruising or swelling around the affected joint
  • Noticeable obvious deformity in your elbow
  • Increased redness, swelling, or discomfort at the injury site

Most elbow problems improve with simple home remedies and nonsurgical treatments. Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 12-15 minutes 3 times daily. Use a compression bandage and elevate the arm to reduce swelling. If nonsurgical treatments do not relieve symptoms, doctors may consider surgery. An accurate diagnosis by an orthopedic surgeon is the only way to determine which treatment will bring comfort.

Wrist discomfort does not usually require medical attention. Minor sprains and strains respond to ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. If the problem persists, your doctor might suggest a few treatments. Depending on its severity, a fracture may require a protective splint or cast. Surgery may be needed if the fracture is unstable. Wearing a cast, splint, or splint can help relieve discomfort caused by sprains, carpal tunnel syndrome, or arthritis.

Applying heat or ice to the painful area reduces inflammation, eases discomfort, and improves mobility. If necessary, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or pain medicines may be used. Change your activities to relax your aching hands or wrists. If symptoms worsen, a doctor should be consulted. The doctor may suggest other treatments, such as splints and numerous surgical procedures.

The normal recovery time after wrist surgery is 12 weeks. It's common to wonder how long discomfort will last after wrist surgery. Most patients experience mild discomfort about two months after surgery. Pain relievers should be used as directed, especially in the first few days after surgery.

Patient Testimonials

  • The care they give is amazing. The front desk gals are so friendly and helpful assisting with anything I've asked. My PA Nathan is very knowledgeable, personable and has been amazing in assisting me with my pain issue's along with other problems. I would and do recommend them to my friends and family.

    SanDee Rhett Avatar SanDee Rhett
    February 16, 2024

    I've been very impressed with the care Emily and her MA Laicy has given me. From the beginning Emily has done everything that she can to see that I go in the right direction for the pain that I've been in. I'm so grateful for my knee injections. I'm starting to feel like a normal person. I will continue recommending Spine Team.

    Kathleen Hartshorn Avatar Kathleen Hartshorn
    November 19, 2023

    Always helpful and great to see. Once again they came through for me with amazing help! I couldn't leave another 5 star review so I would like to add and just let everyone know how amazing Emily M. and Melissa F. are! The reception are always so friendly and helpful, everyone I've had contact with have always been incredible and positive and make every visit great! I referring to the North side location, as I've never been to the other one, they know how to hire the right people!

    Brandon K Avatar Brandon K
    January 19, 2024
  • I recently had a visit and hip injection by Dr. Sneddon. He is brilliant. Very nice man who figured out a problem I didn't even know I had. Would recommend to anyone. The team is also very pleasant and professional.

    Becky Leighton Avatar Becky Leighton
    February 5, 2024

    Kellie is a knowledgeable and effective therapist for physical pain. She not only diminishes alot of the pain at the visit but she has so much information on any specific part of my body that we are working on at the time that I get educated which helps me understand. She is a positive person. She has an upbeat and outgoing personality. I always look forward to seeing her. She is definitely a bright spot in my day! And...my pain is always better the day she treats me. Win -win.

    Jillybean Avatar Jillybean
    November 19, 2023

    I want to comment on my visits to see Emily and Laicy at the north office; they are so professional and caring! I feel so comfortable with talking to them about the issues I may have at the time and know that when I leave my appointment that we have gone over everything with answers. It is a great feeling that when you walk in the receptionist are so kind and easy going and to go to your appointment and you have the most upbeat and professional healthcare; it just makes your day!

    Brenda B Kastelein Avatar Brenda B Kastelein
    November 19, 2023
  • I have have been going to Spine Team for 2 1/2 years. I cannot say enough good things about Emily and Laicy. They know me know my case and are so helpful with anything I need. Even though I have moved farther south in Idaho I will still continue to keep my care with them Thank you

    Candi Rosco Avatar Candi Rosco
    November 19, 2023

    I have been a patient with Spine Team for about the last two years and have to say they are number one! Dr. Emily has been a great listener and really pays special attention to my needs also the other team members Angel and Laicy do a fine job of keeping my appointments on time and checking me in. Life is a journey and not a destination and with the help Spine Team North my quality of life has improved greatly.

    ryan kunz Avatar ryan kunz
    December 19, 2023

    Emily and Laicy @ Spokane Spine Team are great!! All the staff are wonderful! I love working with Emily. She is such a caring and compassionate Doctor and is always trying to find ways to get rid of my pain or make it more manageable. And great big THANK YOU to everyone, especially Emily, at Spokane Spine Team, for all that you do for everyone!! 😊❤️

    MARGIEANN PENNINGTON Avatar MARGIEANN PENNINGTON
    November 19, 2023