Wrist and Hand Pain

We use our elbows, wrists and hands for many everyday activities, including: driving, preparing food, dressing and much more. We rely on these upper extremities and pain in your elbows, wrists or hands can limit how you function daily.

There are a number of causes for wrist and hand pain, including carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel is a type of hand nerve entrapment. It occurs in the wrists where a nerve and tendons extend from the forearm to the hand. Carpal tunnel causes pressure on the median nerve. Its symptoms include:

• Pain, burning, and numbness in the hand
• Pain in the wrist, which can extend to the elbow
• Swollen hand
• Weakened grip and problems with lifting small items

PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR WRIST AND HAND PAIN

Physical therapy is effective in treating wrist and hand pain, and may also help you avoid surgery. A physical therapist will typically work in conjunction with your primary care doctor to identify the root cause of your pain. Strength and flexibility will also be assessed. After a full evaluation, a physical therapist will use therapeutic techniques to eliminate the pain. After that, the focus will be on building your range of motion. Exercises for strength will also be performed. Passive treatments may include ice therapy, heat therapy, massage therapy or electrical stimulation. The ultimate goal will be to rid you of pain and improve function.