Wrist and Hand Pain
In most cases, wrist and hand pain caused by injuries can be managed effectively at home. Applying ice to the affected area, resting the wrist, hand and thumb, and using a supportive brace can help reduce pain and inflammation. Gentle stretching exercises and avoiding activities that worsen the pain can also aid in the recovery process.
If the pain persists or becomes more severe, seeking professional medical advice is advisable. Your GP or a physiotherapist can provide a thorough assessment to determine the underlying cause of the pain and recommend appropriate treatment options. Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and take steps to address any discomfort to prevent further complications.
Below are some indicators that can help pinpoint the potential causes of thumb and wrist discomfort.
Common causes of wrist pain
Symptoms |
Possible cause |
| Discomfort, inflammation, bruising, difficulty moving the wrist, and grasping objects. | Sprained wrist |
| Symptoms include prolonged pain, swelling, stiffness near the wrist and base of the thumb, difficulty moving fingers and thumb, and a possible noticeable lump. | Tendonitis (de Quervain’s disease) or arthritis |
| Persistent nighttime pain with tingling, numbness, and weakness in fingers, hand, or arm, affecting grip strength. | Carpal tunnel syndrome |
| A usually painless lump on the wrist that feels smooth to the touch. | Ganglion cyst |
| Suddenly experiencing sharp pain, swelling, or hearing a popping or snapping sound during the injury. | Broken (fractured) wrist |
Common causes of thumb pain
Symptoms |
Possible cause |
| Pain, swelling, bruising after an injury | Sprained thumb |
| Pain that worsens at night, numbness or tingling sensations, a weak thumb, or challenges with gripping. | Carpal tunnel syndrome |
| Suddenly experiencing sharp pain, swelling, or hearing a popping or snapping sound during the injury. | Broken (fractured) thumb |
Self-management
How to ease your pain.
- Rest your wrist / thumb whenever possible.
- Apply an ice pack on your wrist / thumb for 15- 20 minutes frequently throughout the day (as long as you have full sensation and no numbness).
- Take paracetamol to relieve pain (speak to a pharmacist regarding over-the-counter pain relief).
- Remove any jewellery if your hand / thumb appears swollen.
- Avoid aggravating activities.
- Consider wearing a splint to provide support and relieve pain.
Things to avoid.
- Avoid using ibuprofen during the initial 48 hours after an injury.
- Refrain from applying heat to the area for 3-4 days.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects or gripping items.
Did you know your local pharmacist may also be able to help with your wrist and thumb pain.
Consult a pharmacist for advice on the best painkiller, the right splint for wrist / thumb support, and whether to see a general practitioner or physiotherapist.
How physiotherapy can help
A physiotherapist can work together with you to develop a personalised treatment strategy. This plan may include exercises to improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and reduce pain. Furthermore, they may incorporate manual therapy techniques such as massage or mobilisation to relieve symptoms and improve movement. They can also recommend modifications to your daily activities to reduce strain on your wrist and thumb and can determine whether onward referral may be appropriate, for further treatment options.
When to seek advice
Seek non urgent medical advice and review with your GP if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Wrist / thumb pain affects daily activities.
- Pain worsens or persists after two weeks.
- Experience tingling/numbness.
- Have diabetes.
- Wrist pain with high temperature.
- Pain, warmth, swelling, and stiffness in wrist / thumb.
- Lost sensation in hand.
However, seek urgent medial review at A&E if you have the following symptoms:
- Severe wrist / thumb pain.
- Feel faint, dizzy, or nauseous.
- Heard a snap, grinding, or popping noise at the time of injury.
- Unable to move wrist / thumb or grip.
- Notice change in shape or colour.
- Wrist pain with high temperature.
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