Wrist pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care — from office workers who type all day to athletes who push their limits. While some aches improve with rest, persistent or severe pain may need a specialist's attention.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Numbness, tingling, or burning in the hand, often worse at night.
Arthritis: Pain and stiffness in the wrist joint, particularly with activity or in the morning.
Tendonitis/De Quervain's: Pain on the thumb side of the wrist from overuse.
Fractures or Sprains: Injuries from falls, sports, or accidents.
Pain interferes with daily activities or sleep
Symptoms last more than a couple of weeks despite rest
You notice numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand
Your wrist looks deformed, swollen, or bruised after an injury
Hand surgeons evaluate bones, tendons, ligaments, joints, and nerves of the hand and wrist
They offer non-surgical care first when appropriate — such as splints, injections, or therapy
Surgery is performed only if needed
Some wrist problems, like nerve compression or fractures, can worsen if left untreated
Getting an accurate diagnosis ensures you receive the right treatment
Proper care helps avoid long-term problems
If wrist pain is persistent, worsening, or limiting your life, it's time to get evaluated.
Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis (including De Quervain's), arthritis, sprains, and fractures are frequent causes. An exam helps narrow it down.
If pain persists beyond a couple of weeks, interferes with sleep or work, follows an injury, or causes numbness or weakness, a specialist evaluation is appropriate.
Basic X-rays may be used to assess for fracture or arthritis. Advanced imaging (like MRI) is considered when findings or symptoms suggest soft-tissue injury.
Activity changes, splinting, therapy, and targeted injections are common options. Treatment depends on the specific diagnosis.
Ergonomic setup, regular breaks from repetitive tasks, and conditioning of forearm and hand muscles can reduce risk for overuse conditions.
Don't wait weeks to see a specialist.
