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
What doctor to see for wrist pain?
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.
What causes wrist pain and elbow pain?
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.
How do I know if my elbow pain is serious?
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
How do you get rid of elbow pain?
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.
How to cure wrist pain?
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.
How can I relieve thumb and wrist pain?
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.
How long does the pain last after wrist surgery?
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.