Hand and wrist pain: what causes it?

 In this age of texting with smartphones, video game controllers, computers, the keyboard, mouse, and even the mouse surface on our laptops, it's no wonder that many people have pain in their hands and wrists.


Made from dozens of small bones, our hands and wrists can easily hurt. The wrist alone has eight aligned bones, four at the top and four at the bottom. All eight bones are connected by ligaments that hold the joints together, while providing a wide range of motion for our hands. There are also many tendons that run through the wrist. These control the movement of our wrist, fingers, and thumb. Because each of those parts has a purpose in movement, if even one area of ​​the wrist becomes inflamed or injured, you will feel it.


Injuries or conditions affecting the hands can make previously simple and straightforward tasks painful and difficult. Something as mundane as raising a cup of coffee or brushing your teeth can lead to arm pain. Pain can even cause you to change the way you do things, such as buttoning a shirt, tying your shoelaces, and even signing your name.




Arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, ganglion cysts, and injuries are some of the most common conditions that affect the wrist and hand. Almost anyone can develop any of these conditions, especially carpal tunnel syndrome.


Treatment of injuries can range from applying ice at home to visiting the emergency center.


WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

A common myth about hand and wrist injuries is that if you can move it, it is not broken. That is simply not true. Often times, fractures feel tender right at the bone. If you have an obvious deformity or your skin is cut, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you have swelling, bruising, and / or pain that lasts for more than a day or two, it's worth seeing a doctor to get it checked out.


PREVENT HAND AND WRIST PAIN

However, there are things you can do to avoid hand and wrist pain. Try to keep your bones strong by getting enough calcium and vitamin D, which your body needs to use that calcium. Your doctor will recommend how much and how best to incorporate calcium and vitamin D into your diet.


Then take a look at the ergonomics of how you work and live. If you are struggling, rearrange until you feel more comfortable.


Lastly, make sure you are protected. Whether you are in your own home or playing your favorite sport, it is important to think about safety. Make sure your shoes fit well, that there is no tripping hazard, and that you are wearing the proper sports protective gear.


TREATING HAND AND WRIST PAIN

If the pain is creeping in, it can help ease the pain at home. Applying heat or ice to the painful area can help reduce swelling, relieve pain, and improve movement. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or pain relievers can help if needed. Try modifying your activities so that your sore hands or wrists rest.


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