Pain in the Wrist...
Most often people associate pathology in the wrist with Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome. However, there are a number of other issues that can create
problems and be rather disabling in there own way. The wrist is the final
link that joins the hand to the rest of the body. It has a very important
role in constantly adjusting the tension of muscles that cross the wrist.
In doing so the wrist creates sufficient mechanical advantages that allow
for multiple positioning and the development of power during grasp activities.
One problem that can arise is overuse injuries to the tendons that control
wrist and finger motions. This type of injury can afflict many people
from cross-country skiers to carpenters. Repetitive overloading from swinging
a hammer or pounding the keys of a computer that isn’t set up properly
can create excessive loading to the tendons and the sheaths that they
slide through. Compression from resting the wrist on the edge of a table,
or even worse from incorrectly using a wrist pad on your keyboard, can
cause irritation to the wrist as well. In more severe cases there is a
palpable squeaking sensation as the tendon rubs against the sheath. When
this happens, it is definitely time to consult with your physical therapist!
Learn more about Manual Therapy. Learn more about other therapies we use.
Treatment
Controlling inflammation with rest or activity modification, ice, NSAIDS and possibly Iontophoresis to further control inflammation is advised. Immobilization with a wrist splint is often helpful to avoid stressing the involved area during activities of daily living. Patients are encouraged to maintain mobility through gentle stretching with a progression to strengthening exercises once the irritation has subsided.
Prevention
Avoiding the repetitive nature of some tasks by rotating job demands
will prevent overuse injuries to the tendons. Awareness of proper ergonomics
is also helpful in avoiding this painful condition. Finally, simple stretches
can be very effective in reducing excessive tissue tension that can expose
one to these types of injuries. Contact
us to arrange a consultation.
Meanwhile, protect your ankles from injury by wearing appropriate and
supportive footwear, stretching your calf muscles, and doing simple exercises...
such as walking on your heels with your toes in the air for a few minutes,
to strengthen your ankles.
Return to Where It Hurts, the Clickable Man!
