Wrist joint pain is a very common condition that plagues people of any age and can be due to several causes. Whether it’s a pain in the wrist, ankle pain, or pain in one wrist, this discomfort can make it difficult to do things like write, type, or lift objects. Wrist pain could be a sign of an underlying condition, injury, or repetitive strain, and it’s important to investigate the underlying reason for this to stop it from getting worse. In this article, we will discuss the reason for pain in wrist, common symptoms, and ways to relieve the aching in wrist.
Common Wrist Joint Pain Causes
There are many wrist pain causes that can range from moderate to severe depending on the underlying condition. Arthritis, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and fractures are some of the common wrist joint pain causes. According to the National Institutes of Health, 1 in 7 Americans has arthritis in the wrist, making it one of the most common causes of wrist pain. Additionally, wrist pain is frequently reported in people who do physical work, for example, manual laborers and sports people.
Some of the common causes of wrist joint pain include:
Arthritis
Aching in wrist is primarily due to arthritis, especially osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is caused by cartilage wear and tear, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the wrist joint. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), osteoarthritis is the most common joint disorder and affects 32.5 million adults in the United States. In both cases, people may have wrist joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendons in the wrist caused by overuse or repetitive motions. The condition is more commonly seen in people who frequently use their hands to type, play instruments, or perform any sport that involves wrist movements, resulting in wrist aching and a reduced ability to move.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Another common cause of wrist pain is carpal tunnel syndrome. It can be caused by repetitive motion, especially among those who work in occupations that involve repetitive tasks of the hands and wrists. It occurs when the median nerve is compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the wrist and hand. It can cause aching in wrist and hinder doing the things one has to do.
Symptoms of Wrist Joint Pain
The symptoms of pain in the wrist joint depend on what is causing the pain. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Aching in Wrist:
If the wrist joint is under strain or has been injured, a dull or sharp aching sensation is felt. This aching may stay or get worse with movement or during rest. - Pain in One Wrist:
Injury or localized conditions, such as tendonitis, cause pain in one wrist in many individuals. It can be caused by overuse or trauma to one wrist. - Swelling and Tenderness:
Arthritis or an injury to the wrist joint can cause it to become swollen, tender to the touch, and stiff.
Reasons for Pain in Wrist: Risk Factors
Wrist joint pain is more likely to develop due to some risk factors: Some common reasons for pain in the wrist include:
- Repetitive Strain:
Over time, repetitive motions like typing, lifting, or sports can cause stress on the wrist joint, so you can develop discomfort and inflammation. - Injury:
Wrist pain is often caused by fractures or sprains. Falls, accidents, or sports-related injuries can cause an injury. - Age:
As we age, the rising wear and tear in joints, such as the wrist, can develop conditions like osteoarthritis, which leads to pain and stiffness in the wrist. - Occupational Hazards:
Repeated wrist movements are jobs that call for repetitive hand work, such as carpenters, construction work, or even desk work, increasing the probability of developing wrist joint pain.
Effective Relief Options for Wrist Joint Pain
Treatment and prevention of wrist pain usually include a combination of rest, treatment, and prevention. Here are some commonly recommended relief options:
Rest and Immobilization
You should rest the affected wrist while trying to prevent further strain. When the wrist joint hurts, immobilizing the wrist with a brace or splint can help reduce the inflammation and help promote healing.
Cold and Heat Therapy
Ice packs can help reduce swelling and also numb the area so that the pain is slightly reduced. On the other hand, like with most joints, heat therapy may help to improve circulation and lessen stiffness in the wrist joint.
Physical Therapy
Restoring wrist mobility and strength can be done with physical therapy. A therapist prescribes specific exercises to make you flexible or relieve discomfort in the wrist.
Medication and Injections
If your wrist pain causes inflammation, over-the-counter pain relievers can help. If necessary, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid injections to help relieve severe pain and swelling.
Preventing Wrist Joint Pain
The frequency and intensity of wrist pain can be reduced by using preventive measures. The simplest things, like good posture, ergonomic tools, and avoidance of repetitive strain, can all help. Improving wrist joint stability and preventing injury can also be achieved through strengthening exercises.
Conclusion
Aching in wrist is a common complaint experienced by many people, and can be from arthritis, tendonitis, or any serious injury. Understanding why there is pain in the wrist and finding the right treatment for that underlying reason can relieve symptoms and help improve overall wrist health. If you continue to have wrist pain, visit a health professional to get diagnosed properly and get a treatment plan tailored to your condition.
