The Five Most Common Wrist Injuries Do your hands hurt?

Do your hands hurt?

Wrist injuries are quite common and can result from a variety of causes, such as falls, sports activities, and repetitive movements. Here are the five most common wrist injuries:

1. Wrist Sprains 
A sprain occurs when the ligaments connecting the bones in the wrist are stretched or torn. It’s a common injury that can result from falling onto an outstretched hand. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the wrist.

2. Wrist Fractures 
Fractures of the wrist bones, particularly the distal radius, are common, especially after falling onto an outstretched hand, such as falling off a bicycle or on mountain trails. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, visible deformity, and difficulty moving the wrist and fingers.

3. Tendinitis 
Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons in the wrist, usually caused by repetitive movements or overuse, such as racket sports, gym workouts, or water activities. Several tendons may be affected depending on the physical activity performed. Symptoms include pain, swelling, difficulty moving the fingers, and even a creaking sensation.

4. Ganglion Cysts (Synovial Cysts) 
Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that often appear on the back of the wrist, though they can also be located elsewhere. They are benign but can cause pain and limit the range of motion if they press on nearby structures. They are often the result of an inflammatory response in the joints due to excessive or improper use. Ganglions can fluctuate in size and sometimes disappear on their own.

5. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 
This condition is caused by the compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, loss of sensation, and sometimes weakness in the hand and fingers, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.

 Prevention of Wrist Injuries
- Protective Equipment: Use wrist braces or splints during sports activities. 
- Strengthening and Flexibility Exercises: Perform specific exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve wrist flexibility. 
- Avoid Repetitive Movements: Take regular breaks if you perform activities involving repetitive wrist movements. 
- Gradual Start to Sports Activities: Especially if you haven’t practiced for a while. 
- Ergonomics: Maintain good posture and ergonomics in your physical and work activities.

 Treatment of Wrist Injuries
- Rest, Ice, and Compression: These are the first steps to treating most mild injuries. 
- Immobilization with Splints: This may be necessary to allow the wrist to recover properly. 
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications: These can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. 
- Physical Therapy: Essential for regaining strength and range of motion. 
- Surgery: In severe cases, such as complex fractures or ligament injuries, surgery may be required, such as wrist arthroscopy or fracture surgery. In case of any doubts, consult a hand specialist, especially if fractures or ligament injuries are suspected due to their potential severity.

It’s crucial to consult with a hand specialist if you feel wrist pain or suspect a fracture or ligament injury to avoid complications. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in recovery.

Taking proper care of your wrists and taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk of these common injuries.

All of us at TRAUMAUNIT are highly committed to staying at the forefront of all types of innovations and the latest techniques emerging in our specialty to always offer the best medical care and solutions to our patients.

Our only goal is to help our patients improve surgical outcomes, enhance results, and shorten recovery time. If you would like more information about wrist injuries or wish to schedule an initial consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us.