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Wrist & Hand

Wrist and hand pain mostly do not indicate severe or long-term issues. It normally improves within a few days or weeks with basic self-care at home.

Various conditions, including different forms of arthritis, can lead to pain and other hand and wrist symptoms.

Wrist and Hand Structure

Each hand and wrist are composed of 27 small bones, including eight in the wrist. Every finger contains three bones, while the thumb consists of two. The palm is made up of five bones that link the fingers and thumb to the wrist.

Over 30 muscles regulate hand and wrist movements, extending through the wrists, hands and forearms.

Muscles connect to bones via tendons (small but strong connective tissue pieces). These tendons pass through the carpal tunnel, a bony passage in the wrist that also houses the median nerve.

Common Wrist and Hand Conditions

Several conditions can affect the hand and wrist including:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA)
  • Trigger finger & trigger thumb
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC)
  • DeQuervains tenosynovitis (thumb tendinitis)
  • Scapholunate ligament injury

When to See a GP

Wrist and hand pain usually improves with home treatment, but you should see a doctor if:

  • Pain persists after two weeks of home care.
  • It worsens, keeps returning, or interferes with daily activities.
  • Your hands stiffen and swell in the morning for more than 30 minutes.
  • Swelling is accompanied by warmth, redness, or a general feeling of being unwell.
  • You experience ongoing numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Seek immediate medical care if:

  • You suspect a broken bone.
  • You have severe pain.
  • You notice a deformity or discolouration in your wrist, hand, or fingers.
  • You lose sensation in part of or the entire hand.
  • You heard a grinding, snap, or popping sound at the time of injury.
  • You’re unable to move your wrist, hand, or fingers correctly.

Diagnosis

A doctor or specialist physiotherapist diagnoses hand or wrist problems by asking about your symptoms, how long they’ve lasted, and performing a physical examination. They may check your range of motion, sensation, and strength.

Additional tests may include blood tests to detect inflammation, as well as X-rays, ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans for a detailed view of the affected area. In some cases, a nerve conduction study may be needed in order to evaluate nerve function.

Symptoms Management

If your hand or wrist pain isn’t severe and doesn’t require medical attention, there are several ways to ease discomfort at home.

Modifying activities

Refrain from tasks and activities that worsen pain, especially repetitive movements like using tools, painting, or heavy lifting. Adjusting how you perform certain tasks may help reduce strain on wrists and hands.

Pain relief medications

Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) can help. NSAID gels can be applied directly to the affected area, but never combine gels and tablets because this can result in an overdose. Always follow medication guidelines and consult a doctor or pharmacist if unsure.

Ice and heat therapy

Ice packs (wrapped in a towel) reduce swelling and pain—apply for up to 20 minutes multiple times daily.

Heat therapy (warm compresses, hot water bottles, or warm baths) can ease stiffness and relax muscles but should be avoided if swelling is present. Wax baths can help alleviate pain and stiffness before exercising but should not be used on cuts or open sores.

Alternating between heat and ice during the day can balance pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Wearing splints

Splints provide wrist and hand support, whether for daily activities or rest. A physiotherapist or hand therapist can recommend the right type and proper usage.

Exercise and movement

Keeping your wrists, hands, and fingers moving helps maintain flexibility, strength, and function. Regular exercises can reduce stiffness, especially in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Seek guidance from a GP or physiotherapist for condition-specific exercises.

Bottom Line

Taking care of your hands and wrists is essential for maintaining mobility and reducing pain. You can effectively manage many common conditions by making simple adjustments, using pain relief methods, as well as staying active. However, professional medical advice is important if your symptoms persist, worsen or interfere with daily life.

Do not let hand or wrist pain hold you back—book an appointment with our specialist today to get the correct diagnosis and treatment for lasting relief.