“Wrist and hand pain”
Female | 47 years old
Complaint duration: 4 yrs
Medications: Ibeprohen
3 Answers
From the description of your wrist and hand issue, it seems as if there are two problems. One is a bone/joint (arthritis) problem and the other is a nerve compression problem. I think it is important and valuable to get a good physical examination from a well-trained and knowledgeable orthopedic surgeon. To this end, it will help you better understand exactly what is causing your pain and dysfunction.
From the description of the symptoms, it is hard to figure out exactly where the main problem is. Since there are so many fingers and many bones in the wrist, it leaves me lacking in specifics.
It would also be helpful to know whether or not you have had trauma to the hand and wrist, how your neck is functioning, and the treatments you have bad.
I usually suggest intermittent bracing (including at night), anti-inflammatory medication taken for 7-10 days (if your stomach is healthy), and then a ton of range of motion, flexibility and strengthening exercises. If after 6 weeks there is minimal/no change, then an injection around the compressed nerve can help a lot (there are several non-steroidal injections that are available and range in efficacy). Ultimately, a carpal tunnel release surgery done by a hand specialist with good technique is an excellent treatment option for carpal tunnel syndrome (but not for arthritis). I hope your wrist and hand feel better, and hope this helps.