Joint · Arm · Wrist retinaculum
Wrist pain
Common at this spot
Ordered by how common, not by search volume.
-
De Quervain's tenosynovitis
The thumb side of the wrist hurts, worse when gripping or twisting
Why it happens
The two tendons that run from the back of the thumb down the side of the wrist become thickened and irritated. It can come from sports such as tennis, golf, or rowing, or from repeatedly lifting a baby.
How it feels
- Pain at the back of the thumb when you make a fist or grab something
- Numbness in the thumb and index finger
- Swelling in the wrist
- Stiffness when moving the thumb or wrist
- A snapping sound from the wrist tendons
- Trouble pinching things with the thumb
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if the pain does not improve or gets worse, if the wrist becomes stiffer, or if numbness in the wrist and fingers increases or the hand turns pale or blue.
-
Wrist sprain
The wrist feels raw and weak when you push on it or bend it back
Get help right away ifCall emergency services or go to A&E if you heard a crack when it happened, if the injured part has changed shape, if it has turned blue or grey, or if it feels numb.
Why it happens
Something has been overstretched or torn — here, the ligaments of the wrist. It happens when you overstretch or twist, and more easily if you did not warm up or it was already tired.
How it feels
- Pain, tenderness, or weakness
- Swelling or bruising
- Muscle cramping or spasms
- You cannot put weight on it or use it normally
How long it usually lasts
Most feel better after about 2 weeks. Avoid heavy exercise such as running for up to 8 weeks.
When to see a doctor
Get advice if severe pain is getting worse, if swelling or bruising is bad or worsening, if you cannot put weight on it or move it, or if you have a high temperature or feel shivery (that can mean infection).
Source: NHS (UK)
-
TFCC tear
The little-finger side of the wrist hurts when you load or rotate it
-
Carpal boss
Something hard sits on the back of the hand and hurts when you bend the wrist back
-
Scaphoid fracture
The thumb side of the wrist swells and hurts deeply when pressed