What you need to know about wrist and hand injuries

• Posted on: Oct 15 2021
• By: ryan.loweree

Wrist and hand injuries either happen as a result of an accident or over time often due to overuse. Here are some of the more common wrist and hand injuries and their corresponding treatment options.

Carpometacarpal (CMC) and thumb arthritis

CMS and thumb arthritis is a chronic condition that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the wrist and hand. Splints, hand therapy and corticosteroid injections can help, but surgery may be necessary if it doesn’t respond to conservative treatment. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel is a common condition that consists of pain, numbness and tingling in the wrist, hand and fingers. It is a debilitating condition that is the result of continuous pressure on a nerve in the wrist that controls motor function in the thumb. Treatment begins with anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids and behavior changes, but then may require wrist splinting and surgery, if necessary. 

Trigger finger

Trigger finger is a painful condition common in people with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. It happens when a finger clicks or locks as the person tries to flex or extend that finger. The narrowing of the sheath that surrounds the tendons in the hand causes trigger finger. Most cases can be treated with a corticosteroid injection, but a few may require surgery. 

De Quervain’s disease

An inflammation of the tendons in the thumb causes pain and swelling in the thumb and wrist. This is called De Quervain’s disease and is caused by overuse, trauma, repetitive motion or pregnancy. It’s more common in women than in men. Splints, corticosteroid injections and rest can help, but surgery may be recommended if necessary. 

Dupuytren’s contracture

This hand deformity is caused by the gradual shortening and thickening of the connective tissues within the palm of the hand. In some cases, injectable medication, collagenese or surgery may be necessary. 

Distal radius fracture

A broken wrist is also known as a distal radius fracture and is the most commonly broken bone. Often, when children have a broken wrist, it happens during playground-related activities. X-rays will help with diagnosis, and fractures are occasionally treated with casts. These fractures in adults have to be treated with surgery. 

To learn more about your treatment options for hand and wrist injuries, call 707.544.3400.

Posted in: Wrist & Hand Treatments