The wrists and hands are complex structures that are subjected to a great deal of wear and tear. Comprised of a total of 19 bones, they are supported by ligaments, muscles, and nerves that ensure proper functioning. All these structures are at risk of injury whenever they are subjected to stress. Falls are one of the most common causes of hand and wrist injuries. Repetitive movements and stress are also common causes of injury or dysfunction in this area of the body. Other problems include, among others, arthritis, ligament tears, bone fractures, inflammatory or autoimmune conditions, and avascular necrosis. We discuss some of the more common wrist injuries below.
CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
If you have numbness or tingling in your hand, you may be suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms
Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the hand.
Causes and risk factors
This syndrome develops when the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the wrist’s carpal tunnel. Repetitive motion, especially at the workplace, is the primary risk factor associated with this condition. Anatomical factors such as fractures and dislocations, being female, certain diseases, inflammatory conditions, body fluid changes and obesity are also risk factors. Generally, a combination of risk factors contributes to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Treatment options
Early management can help prognosis. Management strategies that can be implemented right away include taking more frequent breaks, avoiding activities that make symptoms worse, and using ice to manage inflammation and reduce swelling. Splinting may also be used. Some conservative therapies may be extremely useful in managing carpal tunnel syndrome such as acupuncture, photobiomodulation/laser therapy, and instrument-assisted soft tissue therapy. However, if symptoms have been present for ten months or more, the expected prognosis is worse.
DE QUERVAIN SYNDROME
De Quervain tendinitis occurs when one or both tendons that run from the back of your thumb down the side of your wrist are inflamed, swollen and/or irritated.
Symptoms
Pain and stiffness on the back of your thumb when you make a fist, grab something, or turn your wrist. You may also notice numbness in the thumb and index finger, swelling of the wrist and popping of the wrist tendons.
Causes and risk factors
De Quervain tendinitis is often caused by repetitive stress applied to the wrist and thumb. Playing sports such as tennis, golf, or rowing, and playing video games can aggravate this condition.
Treatment options
Frequent breaks, avoiding activities that make symptoms worse and using ice to manage the inflammation and reduce swelling. Splinting may also be used. Acupuncture, photobiomodulation/laser therapy and instrument-assisted soft tissue therapy can also help improve the prognosis.
TRIANGULAR FIBROCARTILAGE COMPLEX INJURY (TFCC)
The TFCC is located between the bones of the forearm and wrist. It serves to stabilize the bones in the wrist and acts as a shock absorber. The TFCC may be injured during a fall on an outstretched hand.
Symptoms
Pain and clicking with wrist movements on the pinky side of wrist. The wrist may catch or not be able to produce smooth movements and may also feel weak and unstable.
Causes and risk factors
The TFCC is often injured during a fall on an outstretched hand. However, repetitive movements can also lead to irritation of the TFCC.
Treatment options
Treatment will depend on the severity of injury. With mild injuries, conservative treatment can help manage and reduce disability associated with this condition. However, if the injury is severe, a referral to another healthcare professional, such as a surgeon, may be warranted.