Overview
Hand and wrist discomfort may develop gradually from repeated use or begin suddenly after trauma, such as a fall onto an outstretched hand, a motor-vehicle accident, or another impact. Some symptoms improve with rest, but ongoing or chronic pain may point to an underlying condition. Evaluation focuses on where it hurts, what activities or events trigger it, and which movements are difficult.
Common symptoms
- Pain in the forearm, wrist, hand, or fingers
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or fingers
- Stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers
- Swelling or tenderness
- Bony changes in the fingers or knuckles
- Decreased range of motion
Conditions we evaluate
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Arthritis
- Pronator teres syndrome
- Sprains and strains
- De Quervain’s tendinosis
- Fractures
- Dupuytren’s contracture
- Compartment syndrome
- Ganglion cysts
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a discussion of your pain location, daily activities, any injury or trauma, and movements that are difficult. A clinician examines the hand and wrist for tenderness, swelling, or bony changes and may gently assess joints, soft tissues, nerve function, and joint movement. Depending on the findings, testing can include X-rays, MRI, nerve conduction studies, or diagnostic ultrasound. The results help shape an individualized treatment plan.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may begin with conservative care, sometimes for two to four weeks, before more invasive options are considered. Options described for hand and wrist pain include rest or temporary work restrictions, ergonomic workstation changes, physical therapy, hot or cold therapy, massage, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, prescription pain medicines, joint injections, and surgery. If stem cell therapy is discussed, eligibility, potential benefits, alternatives, and risks require an individualized conversation; it should not be described as a cure or guaranteed result.