Wrist Injuries

What are common wrist injuries?

Some of the most common wrist injuries include sprains, fractures, and inflammation from repetitive movements. For example, if you fall and reach out to catch yourself, the sudden impact on your wrist can cause a sprain or fracture. 

Additionally, repetitive movements from playing a sport or instrument can cause conditions like De Quervain’s disease or carpal tunnel syndrome. 

Other issues that cause wrist pain and contribute to injuries include osteoarthritis, ganglion cysts, severe sprains, posttraumatic arthritis, Kienbock’s disease—which causes the progressive collapse of the small bones in your wrists. 

Your risk of wrist injuries is higher if you participate in sports or if you have a career or hobby that requires repetitive movements in your wrists and hands such as hammering, jackhammering, typing, cutting hair, or even knitting.

When should I talk to a doctor about wrist pain?

Pain is the way your body tells you that something is wrong, and you should never ignore it. Most of the time, pain subsides after a day or so of rest. If your wrist pain doesn’t go away — or certainly if it gets worse — you should make an appointment at Upper Extremity Specialists of Ortho 1 Medical Group. 

Additionally, if you have an acute injury or if your pain is accompanied by weakness, numbness, or the inability to grasp an object, make an appointment right away.

How are wrist injuries diagnosed?

The Upper Extremity Specialists of Ortho 1 Medical Group team provides comprehensive exams to diagnose the cause of your wrist pain. They ask you about your symptoms and what you were doing that led to an acute injury. 

They feel your wrist, hand, fingers, and arm for swelling or signs of a fracture, while looking for visible signs of your injury. Your doctor may also ask you to pick up or hold small objects to test your dexterity and strength or ask you to flex and extend your hands and fingers. 

If necessary, they order X-rays, MRI scans, and nerve function studies to gather more information about your injury. 

How are wrist injuries treated?

The orthopedic surgeons at Upper Extremity Specialists of Ortho 1 Medical Group offer a wide range of services and treatments to address all types of wrist injuries. They create customized treatment plans to address your specific needs, which may include:

•       Physical therapy
•       Bracing
•       Compression
•       Immobilization
•       Anti-inflammatory injections

If surgery is necessary, the Upper Extremity Specialists of Ortho 1 Medical Group team are experienced surgeons. They provide a wide range of surgeries, including endoscopic carpal tunnel release, bone setting, and arthroscopic procedures to repair your wrist. 

If you’re looking for expert orthopedic surgeons who specialize in wrist injuries, call Upper Extremity Specialists of Ortho 1 Medical Group or make an appointment online today.