What Causes Wrist Pain With a Knot?

Wrist pain with a knot is usually caused by injury, cysts, bone protrusions or daily wear and tear. It's important to have any changes in the wrist or hand joints evaluated by a physician to determine the cause and find the best treatment for a condition.

Ganglion Cyst

• Ganglion cysts are the most common cause of knots or bumps in the wrist. Ganglions are benign cysts often found at the top or bottom of the wrist. The cysts can cause pain and may be removed through aspiration with a needle or surgery.

Tendinitis

• Tendinitis of the wrist causes pain and swelling near the joint. Treatments may include anti-inflammatory medication, rest and physical therapy.

Bone Spurs

• Bone spurs are knots of excess bone growth that usually occur near joints and ligaments. Bone spurs causing pain or damage to surrounding tissue may be removed surgically.

Trauma

• Trauma from a fall or other injury may cause knots, swelling and pain in the wrist. Wrist fractures may go unnoticed for days after an injury.

Arthritis

• Arthritis of the wrist often results in pain, swelling and weakness in the joints. Exercise, medications and steroid injections may relieve swelling and pain.