What Are Possible Causes of Wrist Pain?

The wrist is a joint that is integral to the dexterity of the hand. Several conditions can cause wrist pain that may inhibit normal daily tasks such as typing and opening jars.

Injury

• Injury to the bones or tissues surrounding the wrist, either through repetitive use or a sudden traumatic impact, can lead to wrist pain.

Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis is characterized by a breakdown of the supporting tissue of the wrist that can lead to wrist pain. It is more common in the fingers than the wrists, but previous injury may increase the chances of developing it.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve in the wrist become pinched or irritated, leading to pain. Severe carpal tunnel syndrome may require surgery.

Prevention

• Wrist pain can sometimes be prevented by performing stretching and strengthening exercises to increase the wrist's resistance to physical stresses.

Considerations

• Risk factors for wrist pain include age, diabetes, participation in high-impact sports and working at a job involving manual labor.