Medication for Wrist Pain

The wrist is comprised of eight small carpal bones that are connected by ligaments. There are also a number of flexor and extensor muscles, tendons and nerves in the wrist. Wrist pain can stem from a strained or sprained wrist, inflammation from tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome, where bones compress nerves. Fortunately, there are a number of medications for treating wrist pain.

Significance

• The wrist is used for virtually every task a human performs. It is important to control wrist pain with medication and treatment to prevent further complications.

Types of Medications

• Most wrist pain can be alleviated by taking anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve) or aspirin. Tylenol does not control swelling but can relieve pain.

Other Types of Medication

• Doctors might use steriod drugs, such as cortisone, to control pain from carpal tunnel syndrome. The goal is to reduce the swelling and pressure on the median nerve.

Effects of Heat Rub Medications

• Over-the-counter topical heat rubs, such as Bengay or Icy Hot, can sometimes be used to alleviate wrist pain. Other remedies include heat from herbs, such as menthol or wintergreen, that can penetrate soft tissues in the wrist and relax muscles and nerves, according to mayoclinic.com.

Warning

• Heat rubs should not be used during the first 24 hours following the onset of pain. Blood vessels often break with wrist injuries and heat can increase bleeding.